People (HR) Advisor at Coastland College

Dorset Council UK; Weymouth; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An established education institution in Weymouth is seeking a People Advisor to deliver high-quality HR support and foster employee engagement. The role includes supporting recruitment, providing strategic HR advice, and enhancing staff wellbeing initiatives. Ideal candidates will have relevant HR qualifications and expertise in managing employee relations effectively. This permanent, full-time position requires collaborative skills and a commitment to organizational development.

Benefits

Generous annual leave (up to 30 days)

Pension Scheme

Family-friendly policies

Free on-site gym

Employee discounts

CPD learning days

Qualifications

• Proven track record in providing expert HR support and strategic advice.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships across departments.
• Ability to manage employee relations cases effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality HR support and guidance to staff.
• Support recruitment and onboarding processes and strategies.
• Develop initiatives to enhance employee wellbeing and engagement.

Skills

Expertise in HR practices

Strong communication skills

Organizational development

Knowledge of employment law

Experience in employee relations

Education

Relevant HR qualification

Job description

Help us shape the future of people & culture at Coastland College

At Coastland College, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As we continue to expand and strengthen our College, we’re investing in our people as the foundation of our success, nurturing creativity, wellbeing, and innovation to deliver a transformative student experience that empowers every individual to thrive.

We are excited to announce three new roles within our People (HR) Team that reflect our commitment to building a workplace where talent thrives, innovation is encouraged, and every voice matters.

• People (HR) Advisor
• People (HR) Coordinator
• People (HR) Administrator

These positions are more than jobs, they’re part of our promise to nurture a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

The People Team’s mission is to make Coastland College an exceptional place to work; a place where colleagues feel valued, supported, and inspired to achieve both personal and professional fulfilment.

If you’re passionate about people and ready to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Who We Are

Coastland College is a General Further Education College spread across two campuses - one situated on the stunning Jurassic coastline in Weymouth and the other on a beautiful 18th Century Estate near the market town of Dorchester. As a newly united organisation, we’re bringing together the best of both Weymouth College and Kingston Maurward College to create an even stronger learning experience, with enhanced resources, a broader range of courses and industry‑standard facilities.

We are Connected | We are Courageous | We are Dynamic | We are Empowering | We are Welcoming

With our combined expertise and resources, Coastland College is now one of the most dynamic and versatile further education providers in the region. From A‑Levels to vocational courses and land‑based studies to Apprenticeships, we have one purpose: to inspire our students and apprentices for individual success beyond expectation, ensuring they are future‑ready and prepared for today and tomorrow’s world.

Our supportive and dedicated community of staff place our students at the heart of everything they do, ensuring every learner thrives.

What We Offer

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 25 holiday days, plus bank holidays (pro‑rata for part‑time roles) increasing by one additional day for each completed year of service, up to a maximum of 30 days after five years of continuous service
• Additional efficiency closure days over the winter and Easter break
• Generous Pension Scheme through the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Access to Care First – our FREE confidential emotional support and practical advice scheme
• Dedicated CPD learning days to support learning and development
• Family‑friendly policies
• Free on‑site parking
• Free on‑site gym
• Employee discounts at on‑site facilities such as Signature Hair & Beauty Salon, The Avenue Restaurant and The Bay Theatre
• Wide range of Health and Wellbeing initiatives to support staff including Corporate Eyecare voucher scheme and free and confidential staff counselling

Main purpose of role

The People Advisor plays a pivotal role in delivering proactive, high‑quality HR support across the college. Working collaboratively with all colleagues, the Advisor upholds and maintains the highest standards to ensure everyone is effectively supported to achieve excellence in their roles. Acting as a strategic advisor and operational lead, the role supports workforce planning, employee relations, staff development, and organisational change.

The People Advisor ensures HR practices align with college values, safeguarding responsibilities, and sector regulations.

Work Location

Coastland College, Weymouth Campus with travel to Kingston Maurward campus when required.

Hours of Work

37 hours per week, Permanent
08:30 to 17:00 Monday to Thursday
08:30 to 16:30 Friday

Main duties and responsibilities

Strategic HR Partnership

• Build strong relationships with department leaders to understand workforce needs and deliver tailored HR solutions
• Support organisational development initiatives, including restructures, change management, and succession planning
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the college’s People Strategy

Employee relations and case management

• Provide expert guidance on all employee relations issues including disciplinary, grievance, capability, and absence management
• Ensure fair, consistent, and legally compliant handling of cases
• Maintain accurate records and support reporting for governance, audit and external agencies

Staff development and performance

• Collaborate with line managers and leaders to identify training needs and support CPD planning
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and reflective practice
• Support performance management processes, including appraisals and goal setting

Recruitment and onboarding

• Advise on recruitment strategies and support hiring managers through the selection process
• Ensure inclusive and effective onboarding experiences for new staff

Policy and compliance

• Review and implementation of HR policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with employment law, safeguarding standards, and college policies
• Contribute to equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives

Employee engagement and wellbeing

• Develop and deliver initiatives that enhance employee engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion
• Analyse engagement and wellbeing survey results and support action planning with departments
• Promote recognition schemes, staff voice platforms, and inclusive communication practices
• Support mental health awareness, flexible working, and wellbeing campaigns

Data and reporting

• Use HR data to inform decision‑making and identify trends
• Support the production of reports for SLT, governors, and external bodies

HR Projects and Continuous Improvement

• Lead and support HR Projects
• Identify opportunities for improvement in HR service delivery and employee experience
• Use data and feedback to inform project priorities and measure impact
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to embed changes and ensure sustainability