Head of Widening Access and Participation

Job Description - Head of Widening Access and Participation (24002077)

Job Number: 24002077

Student and Academic Services Directorate

Open-Ended/Permanent - Full Time

Closing Date

16-Dec-2024, 11:59:00 PM

Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Please note that the successful applicant will require DBS disclosure. Further info: here.

The University

At Durham University we are proud of our people. A globally outstanding centre of educational excellence, a collegiate community of extraordinary people, a unique and historic setting – Durham is a university like no other. We believe that inspiring our people to do outstanding things at Durham enables Durham people to do outstanding things professionally and personally. Across the University we have a huge variety of roles and career opportunities, which together make us a large and successful community, which is a key hub of activity within our region and nationally.

The Head of Widening Access and Participation will be the primary individual responsible for delivering Durham University’s Access and Participation Plan (APP). This role is pivotal in driving forward the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic community by removing barriers to higher education for underrepresented groups.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Management

• Develop and implement the University’s Widening Access and Participation Strategy in alignment with the APP.
• Lead the Widening Access and Participation Team, providing direction, support, and development opportunities.
• Ensure that all widening access initiatives are data-driven and aligned with institutional goals and regulatory requirements.

Programme Development and Delivery

• Design and oversee targeted outreach and support initiatives to enhance access, success, and progression for underrepresented students.
• Collaborate with academic departments, colleges, and external partners to develop and deliver innovative programmes that address the specific needs of underrepresented groups.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of widening access programmes and initiatives, ensuring continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Working

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local schools, colleges, community groups, and national organisations.
• Represent Durham University at regional and national forums related to widening access and participation.
• Collaborate with the North East Raising Aspiration Partnership (NERAP) to address regional disparities in higher education entry rates.

Research and Policy Development

• Conduct and commission research to inform policy and practice in widening access and participation.
• Analyse national and institutional data to identify gaps in access, continuation, and attainment, and develop strategies to address these gaps.
• Develop policies and practices that support the University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with the Office for Students (OfS) regulations and requirements related to access and participation.
• Produce regular reports on the progress and impact of widening access initiatives for the University Executive Committee and the University Council.
• Oversee the collection and analysis of data to monitor progress against the objectives outlined in the APP.

Financial and Resource Management

• Manage the budget for widening access and participation activities, ensuring effective use of resources.
• Secure external funding to support widening access initiatives and manage relationships with funders.
• Ensure the efficient allocation of resources to support the delivery of widening access and participation programmes.

Durham University supports a hybrid working environment to promote work-life balance and flexibility. The Head of Widening Access and Participation is expected to spend a minimum of 40% of their working time on-site at the University. This arrangement allows for essential face-to-face collaboration, team management, and engagement with stakeholders, while also providing the flexibility to work remotely. The exact working pattern will be agreed upon with the line manager and may vary depending on the needs of the role.

Working at Durham

• 30 Days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year – a total of 42 days per year.
• A generous pension scheme. As a new member of staff you will be automatically enrolled into this University Superannuation Scheme (USS).
• Ample parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme, and discounts with local bus and train companies.
• A comprehensive range of development courses, apprenticeships and access to qualifications and routes to develop your career in the University.
• Support for health and wellbeing including discounted membership for our state of the art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• On-site nursery is available plus access to holiday camps for children aged 5-16.
• Family friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, which are among the most generous in the higher education sector.
• The opportunity to take part in staff volunteering activities to make a difference in the local community.
• Discounts via our benefits portal including; money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products, and various attractions.
• A salary sacrifice scheme to help you take advantage of tax savings on benefits.
• If moving to Durham, you may be eligible for help with removal costs and we cover most visa costs.

Durham University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion

Our collective aim is to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We welcome and encourage applications from members of groups who are under-represented in our workforce including people with disabilities, women, and black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities.

What you need to demonstrate when you apply/Person Specification

When you apply it is important that you let us know what skills/experience you have from a similar role and/or what skills/experience you have which would make you right for this role. Your application should cover the following criteria:

• Qualifications and Experience:
• Significant experience in a senior role within widening access and participation, preferably within the higher education sector.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful widening access strategies and initiatives.
• Degree-level education or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Experience of managing and developing staff.
• Experience in budget management and strategic planning.
• Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge:
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• In-depth understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in accessing higher education.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion.

How to apply

To progress to the assessment stage, candidates must evidence each of the essential criteria required for the role in the person specification above. Please don’t forget to check if there is any weighted criteria.

Submitting your application

We prefer to receive applications online. We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process.

Contact details

For a chat about the role or any further information please contact Jonathan Batty (Deputy Academic Registrar: Access, Recruitment and Admissions) jonathan.d.batty@durham.ac.uk.