At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead student engagement initiatives and enhance student success through innovative programmes.
- Company: Aston University, a vibrant campus in Birmingham with a focus on inclusivity and transformation.
- Benefits: Generous leave, discounts, training opportunities, and access to on-site gym and pool.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with strong commitment to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student lives and shape the future of higher education.
- Qualifications: Experience in student engagement, data analysis, and leadership in higher education.
The predicted salary is between 33865 - 41391 £ per year.
Aston University’s 2030 strategy is Inclusive, Entrepreneurial and Transformational. We are building a new model of university for a changing world, delivering measurable impact for our students, staff, partners and communities. Within this vision, the Student Life Directorate plays a central role in assisting students from transition through to successful completion, providing expert guidance on engagement, wellbeing and student success.
We are seeking a Head of Student Engagement to join Aston University’s Student Life Directorate. We're looking for someone capable of providing strategic leadership for institutional engagement activity, attendance and engagement monitoring, learner analytics, interventions, regulatory assurance, change, service development and a complementary programme of student enrichment through co- and extracurricular events, workshops and engagement opportunities. The successful candidate will combine regulatory confidence, student-centred thinking, data fluency and the ability to translate engagement intelligence into meaningful action that strengthens belonging, participation and student success.
Key Responsibilities and Priorities
- Strategic leadership of student engagement, attendance and institutional interventions
- UKVI, student attendance and engagement monitoring expertise
- Data-led service planning, KPI oversight and actionable insight
- Development of enrichment activity that complements formal engagement monitoring, including co- and extracurricular events, workshops and student success opportunities
- Change leadership during implementation of the revised Attendance and Engagement Policy
- Audit, regulatory assurance and confident stakeholder engagement
About You
You have substantial experience in student engagement, student success, attendance, learner analytics, compliance or a related portfolio. You understand the intersection between student support, regulatory obligations, UKVI requirements, student belonging and enrichment activity that encourages participation beyond the curriculum. You can use data to generate actionable insight and influence institutional change. You are confident working with academic, professional service and external stakeholders, including in audit or assurance contexts. You will have a degree-level qualification or equivalent substantial professional experience, alongside evidence of management and leadership development relevant to a senior role. You will bring significant experience leading student engagement, student success, retention, compliance or related activity in Higher Education or a comparable complex setting, including strategic planning, service development, data-led decision-making and team leadership. Experience of learner analytics, attendance monitoring, engagement system development, Access and Participation, continuation, regulatory performance or senior governance would be advantageous.
What we offer:
- Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family friendly policies.
- On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions. Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace.
Head of Student Engagement in Birmingham employer: Aston University
Aston University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work environment in the heart of Birmingham with excellent transport links. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, comprehensive training and development opportunities, and a strong commitment to equality and diversity, fostering an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. With access to on-site facilities like a gym and pool, as well as family-friendly policies, Aston University prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in transnational education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Student Engagement in Birmingham
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like Aston University looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Head of Student Engagement at Aston University, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Student Engagement in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Aston University, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Aston University and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aston University
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Aston University might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Aston University.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
