The People & Payroll Officer is a professional operational role providing high-quality administration for the People team and payroll support services across INOVA Multi-Academy Trust.

The role exists to provide a professional, centrally governed service aligned to Trust strategy, statutory requirements and best practice.

Salary Range: Grade 5 SCP 15 – 20 (£30,024 - £32,597)
Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks per year
Responsible To: People & Payroll Manager
Key Relationships: People team, Finance team, school leaders and staff
Location: Trust Head Office

Core Accountabilities

The postholder is accountable for:

• Accurate People and Payroll administration
• Timely processing of contractual and pay changes

Operational Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records, personnel files and systems.
• Respond to staff queries in a professional, friendly and confidential manner.
• Prepare and process monthly payrolls for multiple academies, including joiners, leavers, contract
• changes, salary increments, and allowances (e.g. TLRs, SEN, honoraria).
• Manage statutory payments and deductions. Examples if required: PAYE, National Insurance,
• student loans, court orders, AEOs, sickness (SSP), maternity/paternity/adoption pay
• (SMP/SPP/SAP), childcare vouchers/salary sacrifice.
• Calculate and administer overtime, additional hours, and variable pay in line with Trust policy
• and working time regulations.
• Ensure payroll complies with HMRC requirements, Real Time Information (RTI) submissions, and
• year-end returns (e.g. P60s and P11Ds if applicable).
• Maintain accurate payroll records and audit trails; reconcile payroll reports to finance ledgers.
• Administer TPS and LGPS entries, exits, service changes, and monthly/annual returns; ensure
• correct pensionable pay calculations.
• Liaise with pension funds/providers regarding queries, opt-outs, auto-enrolment assessments,
• and remedy updates where applicable.
• Support resolution of discrepancies and ensure compliance with pension scheme rules and
• legislation.

Governance, Compliance & Safeguarding

• Ensure compliance with Trust policies, employment law and payroll regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and data security at all times.
• Handle sensitive staff data in line with GDPR and Trust policy.
• Support equality, fairness and consistent treatment.
• Adhere to safer recruitment and safeguarding procedures (e.g. DBS checks, pre-employment
• verifications impacting payroll).
• Support internal/external audits and implement recommendations.
• Stakeholder Management & Professional Standards
• Deliver a professional, friendly customer-focused People & Payroll service.
• Work collaboratively with schools and the central Trust team.
• Ablity to investigate and resolve and/or escalate complex payroll cases such as and backdated
• pay adjustments involving multiple earnings components within agreed SLAs.
• Produce routine and ad-hoc payroll reports for People/Finance/leaders.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Proven experience of processing payroll in a complex organisation
• Experience working with payroll systems
• Ability to meet strict deadlines with high levels of accuracy
• Experience in People/HR administration and/or payroll
• High levels of accuracy, organisation and discretion
• Evidence of continuous professional development.

Desirable

• CIPP Level 3+ Payroll qualification; AAT or relevant finance qualification
• Experience within education or public sector organisations.

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Good working knowledge of Teachers’ Pay and Conditions, NJC pay frameworks,
• and standard education-sector entitlements.
• Working knowledge of TPS and LGPS processes, contributions, and accurate
• submission of required data.
• Solid understanding of core payroll legislation including PAYE, NI, statutory
• payments and tax codes.
• Experience processing payroll within an education, MAT or local authority setting.
• Strong numerical accuracy, attention to detail and ability to reconcile payroll data.
• Competent ICT skills including Microsoft Excel and payroll software.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and comply with
• GDPR/data‑protection requirements.
• Ability to follow payroll procedures, interpret basic contractual terms, and
• escalate complex issues appropriately.
• Good communication and customer‑service skills with the ability to respond to
• staff queries clearly and professionally.
• Exceptional written communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and professional judgement.
• Strong organisational, coordination and delivery skills.
• Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.

Desirable

• Experience using integrated HR/payroll systems.
• Familiarity with HMRC RTI submissions and year‑end tasks (P60/P11D).
• Awareness of IR35/off‑payroll requirements.
• Experience supporting payroll reporting or audit preparation

Personal Attributes and Behaviours

Essential

• Organised and reliable, with the ability to manage workload and meet deadlines.
• Professional, approachable, and supportive in interactions with staff across the
• Trust.
• Team‑focused with a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Calm under pressure and committed to accuracy.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare
• of children, following all safeguarding policies and maintaining an enhanced DBS
• clearance.
• Aspire to reflect the Trust’s values and ethos in professional conduct and
• communication within the Trust.
• Have a flexible work approach.
• Have the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal
• boundaries with children and young people.
• Have a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
• Act in accordance with the Trust’s Code of Conduct (and for teachers - Teachers’
• Standards).
• Forge positive professional relationships.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is Monday 6 July 2026 at 8.00am. Interviews will likely be held week commencing 13 July 2026.

If you have any queries please contact our People Team via info@inovamat.org.

The Cluster HR Officer is a front-facing operational HR role supporting a cluster of school with day-today people matters.

The postholder will act as a trusted first point of contact for Heads and school leaders, providing practical advice, managing a range of employee relations matters, supporting recruitment activity and ensuring consistent application of Trust policy and employment practice.

The role combines advisory support, case management, recruitment coordination and people administration, helping schools manage their workforce effectively while escalating more complex matters appropriately.

Salary Range: Grade 5 SCP 15 – 20 (£30,024 - £32,597)
Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks per year
Responsible To: People Business Partner
Key Relationships: People team, Finance team, Cluster team and school leaders and staff
Location: Multi-site school-based role with 1 day per week at Trust Head Office

Core Accountabilities

The postholder is accountable for:

• Providing responsive day-to-day HR support across an allocated cluster of schools.
• Supporting leaders to manage people matters confidently, fairly and consistently.
• Delivering efficient recruitment and onboarding support.
• Managing a range of employee relations matters in line with policy and best practice.
• Promoting compliance with employment law, safeguarding and Trust procedures.
• Building positive professional relationships across schools and central teams.

Operational HR Support

• Act as first point of contact for Headteachers and managers on routine HR queries.
• Provide practical advice on attendance, probation, conduct, capability, flexible working and
• policy interpretation.
• Support leaders with workforce planning, staffing changes and people processes.
• Ensure managers are applying Trust policies consistently and appropriately.
• Provide timely, solutions-focused support to operational people issues across the cluster.
• Escalate complex or high-risk matters to senior HR colleagues where appropriate.

Employee Relations

• Manage a range of employee relations cases including:

1. short-term absence concerns
2. informal conduct matters
3. probation issues
4. welfare concerns
5. informal concerns
6. flexible working queries

• informal capability support matters
• Support formal meetings by preparing letters, documentation and note-taking where required.
• Advise managers on appropriate next steps, risks and timescales.
• Track live cases and ensure matters progress in a timely manner.
• Support return to work meetings and attendance follow-up processes.
• Maintain accurate ER records and case files.

Attendance and Wellbeing

• Support schools with absence management processes.
• Complete or support return to work meetings where appropriate.
• Monitor absence trends and highlight concerns to leaders.
• Signpost wellbeing support and occupational health processes where required.
• Promote early intervention and supportive case management.

Recruitment and Resourcing

• Support end-to-end recruitment activity across the cluster.
• Draft adverts, candidate packs and recruitment communications.
• Coordinate recruitment campaigns, interview days and recruitment events.
• Support safer recruitment compliance including references, DBS and pre-employment checks.
• Liaise with candidates and hiring managers to ensure a positive recruitment experience.
• Support onboarding and induction processes for new starters.

Governance, Compliance and Safeguarding

• Ensure HR practice complies with Trust policy, employment legislation and safer recruitment standards.
• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive employee matters.
• Ensure accurate HR records are maintained in line with GDPR and retention guidance.
• Promote fair, consistent and inclusive employment practices.
• Support safeguarding expectations relevant to HR processes.

Communication and Collaboration

• Build strong working relationships with Headteachers and leaders across the cluster.
• Work collaboratively with payroll, finance and central support teams.
• Provide clear and professional written communication including letters, meeting outcomes and advice notes.
• Support delivery of Trust-wide people initiatives and change programmes.
• Make a positive contribution to the wider life and ethos of the Trust.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Experience in an HR advisory or HR officer role
• Experience handling employee relations matters
• Experience supporting recruitment processes
• Experience in education / public sector desirable

Desirable

• CIPD Level 3/5 or equivalent experience

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Good understanding of employment law and HR practice
• Ability to advise managers confidently on routine HR matters
• Strong case management and organisational skills
• Ability to prioritise workload across multiple schools
• Strong written communication skills
• Good ICT skills including HR systems and Microsoft Office

Personal Attributes and Behaviours

Essential

• Organised and reliable, with the ability to manage workload and meet deadlines.
• Professional, approachable, and supportive in interactions with staff across the Trust.
• Team‑focused with a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Calm under pressure and committed to accuracy.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, following all safeguarding policies and maintaining an enhanced DBS clearance.
• Aspire to reflect the INOVA values and ethos in professional conduct and communication within the Trust.
• Have a flexible work approach.
• Have the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children and young people.
• Have a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
• Act in accordance with the Trust’s Code of Conduct
• Forge positive professional relationships.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is Monday 6 July 2026 at 8.00am. Interviews will likely be held week commencing 13 July 2026.

If you have any queries please contact our People Team via info@inovamat.org.

The Head of Finance is the Trust’s senior professional lead for operational finance, financial control, and financial governance. The postholder is accountable for the integrity, accuracy, and robustness of all Trust financial systems, processes, and reporting, and for the effective leadership of the cluster-based Finance Business Partnering model.

The role ensures that Inova’s financial strategy, as set by the CFO and Trust Board, is translated into high-quality operational delivery across schools and clusters, enabling sustainable educational improvement while maintaining the highest standards of financial probity and compliance.

Salary Range: NJC Grade 11 (£57,787-£63,283 pending payrise)

Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks

Responsible To: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Responsible For: Strategic Finance Business Partners (Clusters), Central Finance Team

Financial Leadership & Governance

• Act as the Trust’s lead professional on financial control, statutory compliance, and operational finance delivery.
• Ensure full compliance with:
  • Academies Trust Handbook
  • ESFA funding agreements
  • Trust Financial Regulations and Scheme of Delegation.
• Lead preparation for external audit, internal scrutiny, and regulatory assurance, ensuring timely responses and implementation of recommendations.
• Maintain and continuously improve internal financial controls, ensuring segregation of duties and risk mitigation across the Trust.

Finance Business Partnering & Cluster Model

• Lead, line manage and develop the Finance Business Partner (FBP) team, ensuring:
  • Consistent standards of financial management across clusters
  • Strong professional challenge and support to school and executive leaders
  • Clear accountability for financial performance.
• Embed a culture of financial literacy, ownership and accountability at school and cluster level.
• Act as escalation point for complex financial issues arising within clusters.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning

• Lead the annual Trust and school budget-setting process, ensuring:
  • Alignment to Trust strategy and educational priorities
  • Robust assumptions and affordability testing
  • Clear documentation and audit trail.
• Oversee production of:
  • Monthly management accounts and complete consolidation
  • In-year forecasts
  • Medium-term financial plans (3–5 years).
• Provide high-quality financial insight and scenario modelling to support strategic decision-making.

Management Accounts & Reporting

• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting to:
  • CFO and Executive Team
  • Trust Board, Finance Committee and Audit & Risk Committee
  • Executive Directors and Cluster Leaders.
• Oversee consolidation of Trust accounts and ensure consistency of reporting across clusters.
• Produce financial reports for the Executive Team, CFO and Trust Board committees (e.g. Finance & Resources Committee).
• Completion of statutory returns including monthly VAT returns

Leadership & Development

• Provide strong professional leadership to the finance function, including coaching and mentoring of FBPs.
• Lead continuous improvement in systems, processes and ways of working, including digital finance systems.
• Contribute to wider Trust transformation activity, including growth, school onboarding and operating model development.

Communication and Collaboration

• Make a positive contribution to the wider life and ethos of the Trust.
• Liaise with external auditors to ensure that Annual Report and Financial Accounts are
• Develop effective professional relationships with colleagues, knowing how and when to draw on advice and specialist support.

Skills and Knowledge and Experience

Essential

• Strong understanding of financial governance, controls, and audit requirements.
• Ability to operate credibly with Trustees, Executives and senior school leaders.
• Significant senior finance leadership experience, ideally within education, public sector or regulated environments.
• Proven experience leading and developing finance teams.

Desirable

• Knowledge of DfE funding, GAG, and education finance regulations.
• Experience within a Multi Academy Trust or maintained schools environment.
• Experience of cluster or devolved financial operating models.

Qualifications

Essential

• Fully qualified accountant (CCAB recognised: ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA).

Work Related Circumstances (including working conditions)

The role will be based at the Trust office and may involve travel across school sites. The post‑holder must be able to travel independently between locations in an efficient and reliable manner. Where driving is the chosen method, a valid driving licence and access to suitable transport will be required.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on the 1st July July 2026 and interviews will be held 3rd July 2026 at the Trust offices

Applications should be emailed to execadmin@inovamat.org.

The Cluster Estates Manager is a critical leadership role within the Project Pioneer operating model. The post exists to replace historically fragmented, school-led estates management with a professional, centrally accountable and cluster-delivered estates function that provides assurance, consistency and value for money at scale.

Salary Range: Grade 8 SCP 32 – 35 £42,839 - £46,142
Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks per year
Responsible To: Director of Estates
Direct Reports: Cluster Site Supervisors
Key Relationships: Estates Team, Contractors, Executive Directors (Cluster), Headteachers, SHEQ Manager, Finance Business Partners and external consultants
Location: Multi-site school based

Purpose of the role:

• To be responsible for multiple school sites and be part of the wider Trust Estates team.
• To be responsible for; maintenance, repairs, testing, servicing, improvements to the buildings, school and Trust funded projects, safe and secure spaces.
• Line management of Building Supervisors working across Trust school sites.
• Monitor and review estates related contracts.
• Oversee Health and Safety across multiple sites to ensure high-level compliance to statutory and non statutory legislation.

The role holds clear accountability for the safety, compliance, condition and operational effectiveness of the Trust estate across a defined group of schools. It ensures that educational delivery is supported by safe, compliant and well-maintained environments, while enabling strategic investment, lifecycle planning and risk mitigation at trust level.

General duties

• Provide effective line management of all site-based estates staff (hard and soft services) across multiple locations.
• Support the Trust Estates Team in planning and delivering rolling schemes for maintenance, repairs, and site improvements.
• Work in collaboration with the wider Cluster teams to manage the premises budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and value for money.
• Liaise with relevant Trust departments and officers on premises-related matters.
• Set priorities that contribute to the Trust’s Asset Management and Capital Planning processes.
• Support, and when needed, manage capital projects in alignment with the Trust’s strategic objectives.
• Instruct and oversee contractors in accordance with the Trust’s Standing Financial Instructions.
• Accurate risk reporting and escalation to executive and board level.
• Report to wider Trust operations meetings, working in an agile and flexible manner to trouble shoot issues.
• Work in line with the Trust’s SLA to deliver a high-quality level of service for total Estates Management.

Repairs and Maintenance

• Oversee all planned and reactive maintenance works, including specification development, scheduling, ordering, and quality monitoring.
• Organise and manage the site-based estates teams, ensuring clear work schedules and effective supervision.
• Implement and monitor planned preventative maintenance routines.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records for premises and equipment maintenance.
• Work alongside the wider Trust Estates Team for long-term planning of major maintenance and repairs.
• Assist in the development and review of the Asset Management Plan.
• Responsibilities for the Repairs & Maintenance budget.
• Oversee the repair and scheduled replacement of furniture.

Site Responsibilities

• Ensure all sites are maintained to a high standard of cleanliness, internally and externally.
• Monitor cleaning services delivered across all sites to ensure high standards are met.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance of grounds maintenance contractors.
• Provide direct supervision and performance management of all site personnel.
• Provide additional support and cover for periods of absence across the cluster.
• Health and Safety (including Governance, Compliance and Assurance):
• Work closely with the Trust SHEQ Manager to implement Trust-wide H&S strategies and objectives.
• Ensure statutory compliance with all health and safety legislation and Trust policies.
• Complete and maintain general risk assessments and the central risk register.
• Provide first-line advice and support on minor H&S issues.
• Ensure full compliance with all statutory estate's obligations, including:

Health and Safety (including Governance, Compliance and Assurance):

• Work closely with the Trust SHEQ Manager to implement Trust-wide H&S strategies and objectives.
• Ensure statutory compliance with all health and safety legislation and Trust policies.
• Complete and maintain general risk assessments and the central risk register.
• Provide first-line advice and support on minor H&S issues.
• Ensure full compliance with all statutory estate's obligations, including:

1. Health & Safety at Work legislation
2. Fire safety, asbestos, legionella, gas, electrical and water hygiene
3. Lifting equipment, pressure systems and play equipment regulations

• Oversee fire safety measures including regular checks of alarms, extinguishers, and fire drill records.
• Support with annual Health & Safety audits and liaise with key stakeholders as required.
• Act as escalation point for serious incidents or compliance failures.
• Provide suitable support for the completion of risk assessments across the cluster of schools, working closely with the Trust SHEQ manager.

Site Security:

• Oversee all aspects of site security, including physical access controls, lighting, fencing, and alarm systems.
• Maintain and review security systems and protocols to safeguard students and staff.
• Liaise with the Police and other agencies/ key stakeholders to ensure a safe and secure school environment.
• Manage key control and issue procedures across all sites.
• Support with the servicing and management of CCTV systems across sites, working closely with the wider Trust IT Team.
• Complete periodic audits for site security and report findings to Trust wider stakeholders.

Contractor Management:

• Establish and manage all site-related contracts in collaboration with the wider Trust Estates Team.
• Supervise and conduct performance reviews of all site-related staff.
• Ensure permissions and permits to work are completed and issued ahead of all contractors works.
• Report premises issues to the appropriate stakeholders.
• Ensure all contracts and services provide Best Value, working closely with the Trust Procurement Manager.
• Maintain effective relationships with local authorities, emergency services, utility companies, and contractors.

Strategic Responsibilities:

• Translate the Trust Estates Strategy into effective cluster-level delivery.
• Contribute to trust-wide asset management planning, condition improvement priorities and capital strategy.
• Support trust growth, onboarding of new schools and estate rationalisation.
• Advise Executive Directors and Headteachers on estates risk, prioritisation and investment decisions.
• Lead on opportunities to develop income and revenue for the cluster, considering lettings and events for the school sites.

Financial & Commercial Responsibilities:

• Manage cluster estates budgets, ensuring affordability and value for money.
• Contribute to lifecycle planning and correct allocation of funds for school and Trust capital project.
• Work with Finance Business Partners to ensure alignment with financial plans.

Leadership, Culture & Development

• Lead, manage and develop Site Supervisors.
• Embed a strong culture of safety, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Model professional leadership behaviours consistent with Trust values.

Stakeholder Management & Professional Standards

• Work collaboratively with schools and central teams.
• Provide a professional, service-oriented approach.
• Represent the Trust positively and consistently.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Significant senior estates or facilities management experience in a complex organisation.
• Proven experience of managing people, budgets and contractors.
• 5 of more GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and Maths

Desirable

• Professional estates or facilities qualification.
• Experience within education or public sector organisations.

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Strong knowledge of statutory compliance and estates risk management, completing statutory compliance returns.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Exceptional written communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and professional judgement.
• Strong organisational, coordination and delivery skills.
• Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.
• Experience in producing suitable scope/ schedule of works along with work specifications.
• Experience in using advance IT systems such as CAFM, Office 365, Project Management tools.
• Strong ability to manage your own time in a fast-paced environment.

Personal Attributes and Behaviours

Essential

• Aspire to reflect the INOVA values and ethos in professional conduct and communication within the Trust.
• Have a flexible work approach.
• Have the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children and young people.
• Have a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
• Act in accordance with the Trust’s Code of Conduct.
• Forge positive professional relationships.
• Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to motivate and inspire colleagues.
• Ability to work well on your own and as part as a collaborative team environment.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is Friday 24 July 2026 at 8.00am.

If you have any queries please contact our People Team via info@inovamat.org.

• This is a cluster-based role and the postholder will be required to travel regularly between Trust sites and schools within the allocated cluster, and occasionally to other Trust locations as required. The postholder must therefore hold a full, clean UK driving licence, have access to a suitable vehicle for business use, and maintain appropriate business use motor insurance. Mileage and authorised travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with the Trust’s Expenses Policy and prevailing mileage rates.
• The duties of this post may vary from time to time according to the needs of the school/Trust and are not exhaustive, the postholder may be required to undertake tasks, roles and responsibilities as may be reasonably assigned to them following consultation with the job holder.
• This job description will be kept under review and may be amended via consultation with the individual, Governing Body and/or Senior Leadership Team as required. Trade union representation will be welcomed in any such discussions.
• The postholder is expected to participate and engage with workplace learning and development opportunities to continually improve their own performance.
• The postholder is expected to engage positively in a coaching culture to support personal development, performance improvement and continuous learning.
• The postholder may deal with sensitive material and should maintain confidentiality in all school related matters as set out in their statement of terms and condition of employment.
• You are expected to take reasonable care of your own health and safety and to be mindful of the safety of others, to cooperate with instructions, to minimise and mitigate potential hazards and risks to others and to appropriately report hazards, illnesses or injuries in accordance with our Health & Safety Policy.

Salary Range: Grade 5 SCP 15 – 20 (£30,024 - £32,597)
Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks per year
Responsible To: Cluster Estates Manager
Key Relationahsips: Estates Team, Contractors
Location: Multi-site school based

Core Accountabilities

• Day-to-day safety, security and operational readiness of the site.
• Accurate completion of routine checks and records

Security of sites:

• Key holder for site(s).
• Responsible for the security of all buildings within remit.
• Work closely with security contractors to appropriately manage systems.
• Manage on site security of both fixed and loose assets on site.
• Daily site security checks, inspecting for issues related to break-ins and vandalism.
• Work closely with emergency services in the event of fire, break-ins, vandalism, flooding.

Cleaning

• Day-to-day support with maintenance-based cleaning tasks.
• Support with specialist cleaning activities.
• Support with stock management on site.
• Cleaning external areas of litter, moss and debris.
• Periodic stripping and resealing hard standing floors.
• Clear and clean external bins.
• Transportation and portage of refuse to bins and skips on site.
• During winter periods, external gritting and snow clearance to support with the opening and safe management of sites.
• Internal and external window cleaning.

Operational Responsibilities

• Site opening, closing and security.
• Routine maintenance and minor repairs.
• Contractor supervision and support with compliance checks.
• Emergency response and business continuity support.
• Out of hours call out support for alarm activation, emergencies and any other additional responsibilities (e.g. opening and closing the site for contractor access).
• On-call responsibilities across sites.
• Portage on sites, and between other sites, with access to suitable transportation.
• Set up and put away furniture and equipment for exams, meetings, functions.
• Distribution and porterage of food, milk and fruit across school sites.
• Support with transportation of vehicles and materials across the wider Trust.
• Support with arranging servicing, MOT and safety checks of vehicles across the wider Trust.

Administration

• Maintain accurate records for compliance, H&S, servicing and testing across the site. This is achieved through accurate recording keeping of all internal and externally provided contractor servicing records.
• Maintain accurate permissions and permits to work for all activities on site, including but not limited to servicing, projects, and contractor activities on site.
• Ensure that all asbestos records are accessible and up to date. This includes visual inspection around the sites, accurate copies of reports and certification, and induction records for all contractors and staff working on asbestos.
• Support with ordering materials and stock on sites, completing order forms in line with the Trust financial policies and procedures.
• When required, obtaining quotes to support with small works on site, in line with the Trust financial policies and procedures.
• Monitor and record energy and water usage on sites, circulating information to the wider Estates and Finance teams.

Grounds maintenance

• Support with weeding, clearing and maintenance garden areas on site.
• Small grass cutting and growth cutting across the sites.
• Monitor onsite contractor standards for wider grounds maintenance.

Governance, Compliance & Safeguarding

• Support statutory compliance requirements.
• Carry out daily, weekly, monthly and ADHOC compliance checks, including but not limited to: fire, water, lighting.
• Maintain accurate records.
• Ensure site arrangements support safeguarding.

Stakeholder Management & Professional Standards

• Work collaboratively with schools and central teams.
• Provide a professional, service-oriented approach.
• Represent the Trust positively and consistently.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Experience in site or facilities management.
• Professional estates or facilities qualification.

Desirable

• Experience within education or public sector organisations.

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Strong knowledge of statutory compliance and estates risk management.
• Practical maintenance skills and strong H&S awareness.
• Ability to work independently and flexibly.
• Excellent attention to detail and professional judgement.
• Strong organisational, coordination and delivery skills.
• Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.

Personal Attributes and Behaviours

Essential

• Aspire to reflect the INOVA values and ethos in professional conduct and communication within the Trust.
• Have a flexible work approach.
• Have the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children and young people.
• Have a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
• Act in accordance with the Trust’s Code of Conduct
• Forge positive professional relationships.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 23 July 2026 at 8.00am.

If you have any queries please contact our People Team via info@inovamat.org.

• This is a cluster-based role and the postholder will be required to travel regularly between Trust sites and schools within the allocated cluster, and occasionally to other Trust locations as required. The postholder must therefore hold a full, clean UK driving licence, have access to a suitable vehicle for business use, and maintain appropriate business use motor insurance. Mileage and authorised travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with the Trust’s Expenses Policy and prevailing mileage rates.
• The duties of this post may vary from time to time according to the needs of the school/Trust and are not exhaustive, the postholder may be required to undertake tasks, roles and responsibilities as may be reasonably assigned to them following consultation with the job holder.
• This job description will be kept under review and may be amended via consultation with the individual, Governing Body and/or Senior Leadership Team as required. Trade union representation will be welcomed in any such discussions.
• The postholder is expected to participate and engage with workplace learning and development opportunities to continually improve their own performance.

The Cluster IT Technician is a professional operational role within INOVA Multi-Academy Trust’s digital operating model. The role exists to deliver consistent, high-quality frontline IT support across schools, replacing isolated school-based provision with a resilient, trust wide service model. The postholder plays a direct role in enabling teaching, learning, safeguarding and business continuity by ensuring that digital systems, devices and user access operate reliably and securely.

Salary Range: Grade 5 SCP 15 – 20 (£30,024 - £32,597)
Hours of Work: Full time, 52 weeks per year
Responsible To: Cluster Network Manager
Key Relationahsips: School leaders and staff, safeguarding leads, digital service providers
Location: Based within the cluster schools

Core Accountabilities

• Timely resolution of IT incidents and service requests in line with agreed SLAs.
• Managing workload across multiple schools using ticketing system priorities.
• Ensuring visibility of demand and escalation when capacity is exceeded.
• Supporting continuous service improvement through ticket trends.
• Day-to-day reliability and availability of devices, systems and user accounts.
• Accurate recording of incidents, changes, assets and actions.
• Regular site health checks (WiFi, safeguarding filtering, backups, print, AV).
• Identifying recurring issues and root causes.
• The ownership of known issues within their cluster schools.

Operational Responsibilities

• Provide first and second-line support to staff and pupils across cluster schools.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software issues.
• Provide first-line network diagnostics (switch/AP checks, patching, VLAN awareness) before escalation.
• Configure, deploy and maintain laptops, desktops, tablets and peripherals.
• Support user account management, permissions and access control.
• Assist with system upgrades, new technologies, migrations, testing and rollouts.
• Maintain accurate asset registers and documentation.

Governance, Safeguarding & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with:

1. GDPR and data protection legislation.
2. DfE cyber security standards and guidance.
3. Trust IT, information security and acceptable use policies.

• Follow Trust policies on data protection, acceptable use and information security.
• Escalate safeguarding, cyber or data protection concerns promptly and appropriately.
• Handle sensitive data in line with GDPR and Trust policy.
• Support inclusive access to digital systems and resources.
• Monitoring and responding to endpoint security alerts.
• Supporting patching and vulnerability remediation.
• Identifying unsafe user behaviours (phishing, risky practices).

Stakeholder Engagement & Professional Standards:

• Deliver a professional, customer focused service to schools.
• Communicate technical issues clearly to non-technical users.
• Represent the Trust positively and consistently in all interactions.

Stakeholder Management & Professional Standards:

• Work collaboratively with schools and central teams.
• Provide a professional, service-oriented approach.
• Represent the Trust positively and consistently.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Experience providing IT support in a busy, multiuser environment.
• Experience within education or public sector organisations.

Desirable

• Relevant IT support qualifications.

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Strong technical knowledge of networks, infrastructure, cloud services and cyber security.
• Working knowledge of common operating systems, devices and applications.
• Strong problem solving, diagnostic and customer service skills.
• Exceptional written communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and professional judgement.
• Strong organisational, coordination and delivery skills.
• Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.

Personal Attributes and Behaviours

Essential

• Aspire to reflect the INOVA values and ethos in professional conduct and communication within the Trust.
• Have a flexible work approach.
• Have the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children and young people.
• Have a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
• Act in accordance with the Trust’s Code of Conduct.
• Forge positive professional relationships.

• Local Government pension scheme​
• Cycle to work scheme​
• Discounted membership for Westfield Health​
• Continuous CPD and training
• BUPA Healthy Minds scheme
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Eye care vouchers for eligible colleagues
• Discount schemes for public service staff
• Free parking at all INOVA sites 

Applications for this role must be made via our Employment Application Form below.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 23 July 2026 at 8.00am.

If you have any queries please contact our People Team via info@inovamat.org.

• This is a cluster-based role and the postholder will be required to travel regularly between Trust sites and schools within the allocated cluster, and occasionally to other Trust locations as required.
• The postholder must therefore hold a full, clean UK driving licence, have access to a suitable vehicle for business use, and maintain appropriate business use motor insurance. Mileage and authorised travel expenses will be reimbursed in line with the Trust’s Expenses Policy and prevailing mileage rates.
• The duties of this post may vary from time to time according to the needs of the school/Trust and are not exhaustive, the postholder may be required to undertake tasks, roles and responsibilities as may be reasonably assigned to them following consultation with the job holder.
• This job description will be kept under review and may be amended via consultation with the individual, Governing Body and/or Senior Leadership Team as required. Trade union representation will be welcomed in any such discussions.
• The postholder is expected to participate and engage with workplace learning and development opportunities to continually improve their own performance.
• The postholder is expected to engage positively in a coaching culture to support personal development, performance improvement and continuous learning.
• The postholder may deal with sensitive material and should maintain confidentiality in all school related matters as set out in their statement of terms and condition of employment.
• You are expected to take reasonable care of your own health and safety and to be mindful of the safety of others, to cooperate with instructions, to minimise and mitigate potential hazards and risks to others and to appropriately report hazards, illnesses or injuries in accordance with our Health & Safety Policy.