RATCLIFFE COLLEGE
50,000 per year
Ratcliffe College, Fosse Way, Ratcliffe on the Wreake, Leicester, LE7 4SG
Full-time
HEAD OF PEOPLEAppointment ofCONTENTS3Our Mission Statement andVision1Headmaster’s Introduction7About Ratcliffe College6The Benefits4-5Academic ExcellenceThe Vacancy910-11How to apply / Ratcliffe Terms12-13 Job Description and PersonSpecificationI wish you all the very best of luck with your application. Yours sincerely, Kind regards,Mr J. P. Reddin,Headmaster.Welcome to Ratcliffe College. I am delighted that you are considering applying for a role at our wonderful school. First andforemost, Ratcliffe College is a fantastic place to work. We are blessed with a beautiful physicalenvironment set in almost 200 acres of rolling Leicestershire countryside. Our staff, teaching andnon-teaching, work in harness, daily, to provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for thechildren and young people to enjoy. Our collegiality is built on the foundations of the College’sCatholic faith, which welcomes everyone with the same universality of warmth and respect,embracing difference and cultivating an authentic community which values everyone equally. As a Catholic School with a proud Rosminian heritage which has endured since our Foundationin 1847, our aim is to help young people to achieve their greatest potential, guide theirintellectual growth, nurture their God-given talents, and inspire them to live in service to others.Together, we aim to develop honest, confident, responsible, and compassionate members ofsociety, based on the educational values of Blessed Antonio Rosmini, inspired by our schoolmotto, Legis Plenitudo Charitas’ or Love is the fulfilment of the Law. At Ratcliffe College, Christ is very much at the centre of all that we do. So, if our Missionresonates, and you believe you can be happy and thrive here, I encourage you to apply andjoin our team of staff as we fulfil our Mission.HEADMASTER’S INTRODUCTION12“Learning and Growing in theLight of the Gospel.”With Christ at the centre of our learning we: Help young people to achieve their greatestpotential.Guide their intellectual growth, nurture theirGod-given talents, and inspire them to live inservice to others.Aim to develop honest, confident, responsible andcompassionate members of society, based on theeducational values of Blessed Antonio Rosmini. Our core Rosminian values: 1. Legis Plenitudo Charitas: Love is the Fulfilment ofthe Law. Our community recognises each individual as a uniquepart of God’s creation, nurtures in each a sense ofdignity and self-worth, and fosters supportive andcaring relationships. 2. Rosminian Education pursues the perfection ofboth human nature and the human person. Our students’ intellect and talents are formed by abroad and balanced curriculum, responsive to andsupportive of students’ needs and aspirations. Ourstudents’ moral integrity is developed through theteaching, celebration and the living of Christian faith.3. Intellectual integrity leads us to the Truth. God is the source of all truth. Our staff are encouragedto foster intellectual curiosity, honesty and achievementin their students and within themselves. OUR VISIONTo be a leading independent day and boardingschool, which is financially secure. OURMISSIONSTATEMENTSCAN THE CODE 3-YEAR STRATEGYDEVELOPMENT PLAN 2025-2028.34Ratcliffe College is an Outstanding Roman Catholic,co-educational, day and boarding school for studentsaged between 3 and 18 years, founded in 1847 bythe Institute of Charity (known as the Rosminians). Whilst Ratcliffe operates as a Catholic school, children arewelcomed from other denominations and faiths whoseparents feel they can share in, and benefit from, the ethosand environment of the College. The majority of students atRatcliffe are day students drawn from the local catchmentarea of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. The Senior Leadership Team comprises:Headmaster Mr J Reddin, BSc, MSc, NPQH Senior Deputy Head Mr K Ryce, BA, MScDeputy Head Pastoral Mr J Rainer, BA, MADirector of Safeguarding Mr J MastertonAssistant Head Academic Ms J Davis, BA, MScAssistant Head, Head of Sixth Form Mr B Harrison, BAHead of Preparatory School Mrs S Minford, BA, MADeputy Head of Preparatory School Mrs M Markham, BMusDirector of Finance and Operations Mr C Bellamy, HNDBoarding CommunityRatcliffe benefits from a vibrant, warm and welcoming boarding community that has long been part of the School's history. Allstudents are encouraged to participate in boarding during their years at school – as full, weekly, part-time or occasionalboarders. Its close-knit community of friends and teachers’ is a supportive environment where our young people thrive. Our boarding community comprises students from both the UK and overseas, including those who join through our partnership withthe Academy at Leicester City Football Club.The College also offers several short-term international boarding programmes throughout the year, including 3–4 immersion tasterexperiences and an annual International Summer School, all delivered by Ratcliffe staff.Boarders benefit from a strong pastoral framework. Each student is supported by a Form Tutor who monitors their academicprogress and personal development, alongside the care and guidance provided by a dedicated and experienced boardingteam.ABOUT RATCLIFFE COLLEGE 4Ratcliffe College Preparatory School Ratcliffe College Preparatory School is a thriving andnurturing environment where children aged 3 to 11 areencouraged to develop a lifelong love of learning. As part ofthe wider Ratcliffe College community, the Prep Schoolbenefits from outstanding facilities, a beautiful campussetting, and access to specialist teaching, ensuring aseamless educational journey from Early Years through toSenior School.Ratcliffe College Preparatory School provides a rich, well-rounded educational experience that nurtures each child’sunique talents and potential. Our dedicated staff arecommitted to delivering a broad, balanced, and ambitiouscurriculum that supports academic excellence while nurturingcreativity, confidence, and character. Alongside coresubjects, pupils enjoy a wide range of specialist-led lessonsincluding Music, French, Spanish, Latin, Drama, PhysicalEducation and Games. Small class sizes and a strong sense of community allow usto truly know each child and support their individual strengthsand needs. An extensive co-curricular programme, regular trips, andenrichment opportunities further enhance pupils' experiences,helping to develop well-rounded individuals prepared forthe next stage of their education. The Preparatory School isan exciting and rewarding place to work. Staff are valuedmembers of a collaborative and forward-thinking team,playing an active role in shaping the character and culture ofthe school.5Ratcliffe students enjoy an excellent all-roundbalanced education, underpinned by theCollege’s core Rosminian Catholic ethos. While students at Ratcliffe have a broad range ofability, academic success is strongly encouraged,valued and recognised; indeed, the greatlyimproved academic standards in recent years haveproved popular both with parents and prospectiveparents, as reflected in the numbers of studentsapplying to join the College.Ratcliffe College has repeatedly ranked in thetop 10% nationally for value added results at A Level.A Level results achieved in 2025: 45% of A Level grades A*/A 71% grade B or above. Ten percent of students achieved A*/A*/Aor better. One in four students achieved A Level orBTEC grades equivalent to A/A/A orhigher.Over 90% of students typically achieve their firstchoice pathway for life after School. This includesstudents taking up places at Oxford, Cambridge,and other highly selective Russell Group universities;for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science; andat universities abroad.. ACADEMICEXCELLENCERatcliffe College has been judged ‘Excellent’ in all areas (ISI Inspection, 2022).Read the full Inspection Report here.6THE BENEFITS OFWORKING ATRATCLIFFE COLLEGETPS or Defined ContributionsPension SchemeFree parking on-siteFree lunch and refreshments Professional Developmental opportunities Sport and LeisureFree use of the on-site gym (at specified times)Leicestershire County Cricket Clubfamily tickets (limited)Staff WellbeingStaff Wellbeing Committee Free staff social events Access to on-site Medical CareRatcliffe College CommunityCommittee Access to the School Counsellor Free health line for staff and theirfamiliesSCAN THE CODE VIRTUAL CAMPUSTOUR.7HEAD OF PEOPLE - FULL TIMEVACANCY 9Ratcliffe College, one of the UK’s leading Independent Catholic Day and Boarding Schools, is seeking an experienced andproactive Head of People to join our team. This is a rare and exceptional opportunity to play a strategic role in a highly successfuleducational institution, supporting over 300 staff, and contributing to the ongoing success of the College.Leading the Human Resources (HR) Department, you will be a strategic partner, supporting managers and staff in all aspects ofHR. You will provide high level employment advice and best practice, oversee all recruitment and champion a positive workenvironment throughout the College.Our ideal Head of People will:Have a minimum of 5 years of high-level HR experienceHold a CIPD Level 7 qualification or have equivalent experienceBe able to give timely and accurate high-level employment law advice to managersBe confident in developing effective recruitment strategies for a variety of rolesWork efficiently and thrive in a fast-paced environmentExcel at communication and collaboration, building strong relationships with colleaguesHandle people related issues with the utmost tact, diplomacy and sensitivity.Background InformationThe successful applicant will be expected to carry out a review of all aspects of the HR department, to ensure it is fit for purpose,make recommendations for improvement and implement the necessary organisational change. The College has recognised theneed to select and implement a bespoke HR Information System which will be a key task for the new postholder.The role is varied with many employees working across a wide range of disciplines including teaching, catering, estates, etc. Assuch the position benefits from involvement in all College departments which makes this a unique proposition within theorganisation. The Head of People will line-manage and be supported by a full time HR Advisor and part time HR Assistant. The post reportsdirectly to the Director of Finance and Operations. This post is full-time and based at the College, due to the 100% onsite nature of the business, flexible working arrangements suchas remote working are not offered. The core hours are expected to be from 8.30am to 5.00pm, with one hour for lunch. However, due to the nature of this positionthe post holder will be reasonably expected to work such hours as shall be necessary to fulfil the duties and responsibilitiesefficiently and effectively. Such hours will be deemed to be included in the Job Description.Salary: Circa £50,000, Dependent upon experience Pension: Attractive defined contribution scheme with employer contributions of 8.6%.DIS Benefit: Excellent death in service benefit of 4 times annual salary. Holidays: 25 days, plus Christmas shut-down, plus bank holidays.JOB DESCRIPTION1010THE ROLEAs Head of People, you will act as a strategic partner, providing expert advice and guidance to staff and managers acrossall aspects of HR. You will:Lead recruitment programs and develop effective strategies for attracting high quality staff.Champion a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment.Manage employee relations, staff wellbeing initiatives, and change management Support the Director Finance and Operations in implementing HR strategies and driving continuous improvement in ourHR operations.Support the Headmaster and Senior Deputy Head in all aspects of HRKEY RESPONSIBILITIESEnsure compliance with statutory safeguarding requirements, to ensure the College’s Single Central Register is up to dateand accurate for all categories of staff, volunteers, proprietors, etc.Provide high level advice to SLT members and other department heads on the management of employee relations;including disputes, grievances, disciplinaries, and absence management.Consult with College legal advisors on employment law matters when necessary.Ensure all HR policies remain compliant with the latest employment law and reflect best practice within the IndependentSchools sector.Manage all aspects of the recruitment of new staff to the College, to ensure that the College is best placed to recruithigh quality staff to any new position across all departments. Including the management of appropriate new staffinduction training. Maintain staff handbooks for all College staff and update the whole College organisation charts with changes asnecessary.Collaborate with the Finance department, to ensure accurate monthly payroll processes and all new appointments orother changes to payroll are communicated timely and accurately. Produce annual salary letters in collaboration with thepayroll function to inform all employees of annual pay awards or any other changes to salary.Lead on College staff absence management and ensure accurate records are maintained.Lead on whole College staff wellbeing, promote equality, diversity, and inclusion strategies.Select and implement an appropriate new HR IS.Prepare HR metrics and reports on staff turnover, absence, and workforce demographics.Manage whole College staff appraisal for all employees and ensure appropriate records are kept.Attend termly Joint Consultative Committee meetings with teaching staff trade unions.As a key member of the Health and Safety Committee and the Staff Wellbeing Committee, attend termly meetings.Manage the College off boarding process, including exit interviews, access to IT systems and the return of all Collegeequipment.The postholder can reasonably be expected to carry out any other duties relevant to the role as directed by the Headmasteror Director of Finance and Operations.EssentialDesirableMethod ofAssessmentEducation/QualificationsCIPD Level 75 years Generalist HR ExperienceDegree in HR or equivalentProfessional QualificationApplicationform/InterviewSkills / knowledgeExcellent communication skills Up to date, confident and accurate use ofIT Up to date knowledge of EmploymentlegislationStrong advisory skillsDecision-making skills and the ability tosolve problems, prioritise workload andwork on own initiative Good organisational ability with asystematic and methodical approach High standard of literacy and accuracy Tact, diplomacy and ability to maintainconfidentialityFine attention to detailFamiliarity with SIMsdatabaseApplication form Experience of:HR Manager roleManaging a teamProject ManagementWorking with trade unionsExperience of workingin an educationenvironmentExperience of an HRISApplication formPersonal qualitiesConfidentProfessional Positive work attitudeAbility to implement changeCommitment to the ethos of the CollegeCommitted to promoting equality, diversityand inclusionEnjoys challengesHave creative energyFlexible approach to workAbility to work under pressureOutgoing personalityApplication form/InterviewPERSON SPECIFICATION11Ratcliffe College reserves the right to interviewand appoint ahead of the closing date.INVITED TO INTERVIEW If you do not hear anything further within twoweeks of the closing date, please assume thatyou have not been successful on this occasion.Visit our vacancies page.Please follow the link above to visit the mainvacancies page on our school website. Searchfor the vacancy you wish to apply for,complete the online application form in fulland submit it to us before the closing date. HOW TO APPLYCOMPLETE AN ONLINEAPPLICATION FORM12Child ProtectionRatcliffe College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expectsall staff to share this commitment. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and applicants arerequired to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are “spent” unless they are “protected” underthe DBS filtering rules), in order to assess their suitability to work with children. For further information, please see the Recruitment, Selection and Disclosures Policy andhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-guidance-on-the-rehabilitation-of-offenders-act-1974The College is also registered for the processing of personal data in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.Such checks are required in accordance with the Recruitment, Selection and Disclosures policy and the Data Protectionpolicy. Copies of these policies may be obtained from the Director of Finance and Operations upon request.The appointment is subject to satisfactory:References, of which one must be from a current or most recent employer if not currently in employmentDisclosure and Barring Service check (including children’s barred list check if appropriate)Open source checkProof of identityRight to work checkQualifications checkHealth screeningRATCLIFFE TERMS13Ratcliffe College, Fosse Way, Ratcliffe on the Wreake, Leicester, LE7 4SGwww.ratcliffecollege.comHR: 01509 817089HR@ratcliffecollege.com