Schools Liaison & Access Officer

Merton College is one of the oldest and most beautiful colleges within the University of Oxford, tucked away behind the High Street, with stunning meadow views but within easy reach of other University buildings and the city centre. The College has a vibrant, diverse, inclusive community with an exceptional record of academic success.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, effective communicator with a passion for outreach to join us as our Schools Liaison and Access Officer. This could be an ideal role for someone who is looking to begin a career in outreach or higher education or someone with a background in education who is seeking to change their career.

The purpose of the role

The Schools Liaison and Access Officer will play a vital role in Merton’s work to attract academically talented applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and in helping to increase the proportions of students from groups who are currently under-represented in Oxford. This is an exciting opportunity for a well-organised individual to play an integral part in developing and delivering the College’s access and outreach strategy, working with prospective and current students, schools, academic and administrative colleagues, and a range of other stakeholders.

The post holder manages the planning, coordination, and delivery of all aspects of the College’s outreach and access initiatives for schools, colleges, and prospective applicants. The role covers aspects of recruitment and widening access to Oxford specifically and widening participation to higher education in general.

Our excellent benefits

• The post holder is eligible for membership of the University of Oxford Staff Pension Scheme (OSPS), which is a contributory scheme;
• Free medical insurance (which is assessable as a taxable benefit);
• 30 days’ holiday per year (excluding bank holidays);
• Free car parking, cycle to work and electric car schemes and loans for the purchase of seasonal travel passes;
• The College has a gym, which is free to use for staff, and there are a number of organised activities, such as yoga and circuit training, that are also free for staff;
• Meals in College are provided free of charge when on duty;
• The College will pay for membership of the relevant professional body, HELOA (Higher Education Liaison Officers’ Association).

For further information and to apply, please visit the Merton College website.

Closing date: 9.00am on Wednesday, 16th July 2025. Interview date: w/c 11th August 2025.

Merton College is an Equal Opportunities Employer. The College is committed to promoting diversity and would therefore particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as well as other under-represented groups.