Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice (ODP)

The Faculty of Health, Sport and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Northampton is entering a phase of growth within the School of Health, beginning with the creation of a brand‑new BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice programme, with an integrated apprenticeship route, launching in September 2027. We are seeking an exceptional Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice to lead the development of this innovative new degree from concept, through validation, and into successful delivery.

This is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to shape a new programme that will influence the future of ODP education and perioperative practice. As an Operating Department Practitioner registered with the HCPC and the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP), you will bring your professional expertise, creative thinking, and leadership to a School that values innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Working closely with the school leadership team, you will design and co‑create an effective, future‑focused curriculum that reflects the full scope of contemporary perioperative practice and responds to emerging priorities across surgical care, anaesthesia, and post‑operative recovery. You will embed simulation‑based education, applied learning, and authentic assessment throughout the programme, supported by networks, modern facilities, and an engaged portfolio of established health courses.

As Course Leader, you will play a pivotal part in:

• Setting the vision, identity and standards for the new programme
• Leading the programme to a successful validation process with the HCPC
• Ensuring high levels of academic quality, governance, and professional alignment
• Driving continuous improvement and inspiring students to achieve at the highest level
• Networking and collaborating with external partners, seeking opportunities for knowledge exchange, research, and CPD delivery

You will join a supportive and forward‑thinking School where creativity and academic growth are actively encouraged. With a committed leadership team alongside you, you will have both the autonomy and the backing to bring your ideas to life and to shape an outstanding student experience.

If you are passionate about Operating Department Practice education, excited by course design and leadership, and motivated by the chance to make a lasting impact on the profession, we would be delighted to hear from you.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.

You will be an experienced, forward‑thinking Operating Department Practice educator or practitioner who is excited by the opportunity to build something new and meaningful. You will bring a clear vision for ODP education at UON, underpinned by a commitment to high‑quality learning and an excellent understanding of emerging evidence, professional standards, and future workforce needs across the perioperative environment.

You will have experience in curriculum design, teaching, or practice‑based education, and you will be confident in leading academic development from concept through to implementation. Your ability to think creatively, work collaboratively, and engage colleagues, partners, and students will be central to shaping the success of this new programme.

You will thrive in an environment that values innovation and teamwork, and you will be motivated by the opportunity to influence professional education at a strategic level. With good communication skills, excellent organisation, and a student‑centred approach, you will be committed to creating high‑quality learning experiences that reflect contemporary perioperative practice and evolving professional expectations.

Most importantly, you will bring enthusiasm, vision, and the confidence to lead a new programme through validation and into delivery, establishing it as a benchmark for excellence in Operating Department Practice education.

Qualifications

Essential

• Degree qualification or equivalent in relevant subject area of Operating Department Practice
• Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP)
• Professional Recognition as HEA Fellow (D2) or teaching qualification recognised by HESA, or willingness to obtain within an agreed timescale

Desirable

• Masters degree in relevant subject
• Doctorate in relevant subject, completed or within 12 months of completion

The School of Health is a dynamic and high‑performing centre for Allied Health Profession (AHP) education, recognised for inspirational teaching, excellent professional outcomes, and a consistently excellent student experience. We are proud of our exceptional National Student Survey 2025 results, with satisfaction rates of 95% in Paramedic Science, 92% in Podiatry, and 91% in Occupational Therapy, contributing to our ranking as one of the top three providers of Health Professions education in the UK.

Our portfolio spans undergraduate, postgraduate, and CPD programmes, supporting learners at every stage of their professional journey. We currently offer established courses in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Paramedic Science, and Podiatry, all underpinned by partnerships and a commitment to contemporary, practice‑focused education.

Looking ahead, the school is undergoing a significant period of growth, with three new undergraduate degrees in development: Dietetics and Nutrition, Speech and Language Therapy, and Operating Department Practice. These additions reflect our ambition to meet future workforce needs and to expand our multi‑professional learning community.

Our modern campus provides specialist teaching spaces, immersive simulation environments, and authentic clinical facilities, giving students access to high quality, applied learning experiences that mirror real‑world healthcare practice.

At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.

Our People

Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first‑rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.

Our Values

• Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
• Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
• Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
• Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.

Right to work

All candidates will be required to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK during the interview process. The University is open to considering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, provided that the eligibility criteria of the points‑based immigration system are met.

Equality

We welcome applications from individuals from under‑represented groups. The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.

Together @ UON

Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion. Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.

Commitments Include

• Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero‑tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
• Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
• Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.

UON's Major Commitments

• Disability Confident Standalone Pledge
• IHRA Working Definition