Overview
In this role you will lead and manage region-wide outreach projects that promote higher education among underrepresented groups. You will drive engagement with schools and sixth forms, supervising a Higher Education Ambassador and coordinating activities across partner institutions. You will develop in-person and virtual outreach, ensure data collection and reporting, and contribute to widening participation goals. This is a mission-driven opportunity to shape progression pathways and collaborate with multiple universities and schools.
Pay / Benefits
- 27 days annual leave
- Generous USS pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Tusker Car Benefit Scheme (electric/hybrid vehicles)
- Professional development opportunities
- Health and wellbeing support
Responsibilities
- Lead and project-manage FutureMe outreach projects within the Uni Connect programme across the North East
- Supervise and coordinate a Higher Education Ambassador and tutor team
- Build and sustain relationships with senior school leaders to plan, deliver and monitor outreach activities
- Plan, deliver and monitor in-person and virtual outreach sessions and tutoring aligned to progression frameworks
- Manage designated budget, procurement, and financial reporting for the NEUCP
- Plan and coordinate workshops, activities, and presentations to prospective applicants
- Collect, record, and report data on participation and impact (HEAT usage) to senior colleagues
- Ensure safety, compliance, and data protection across activities and equipment
- Contribute to service improvement through meetings, reviews, and stakeholder liaison
- Lead recruitment and supervision of undergraduate tutors and tutor training
- Coordinate communications to students, parents/carers, and staff about the programme
- Attend regional meetings and work across partner institutions as needed
- Support equality, diversity, and inclusion within the programme
Key requirements
- Five GCSEs (C/4) including English and Maths or equivalent
- Degree or equivalent qualification and direct experience of UK school and HE systems
- Experience of working with young people and inspiring interest in higher education
- Experience organizing complex events for young people, preferably in HE
- Experience advising customers and colleagues
- Excellent spoken and written communication and ability to present to diverse audiences
- Strong digital competence and proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Commitment to continuing professional development
- Ability to develop new outreach activities and experiences (in-person and virtual)
- Ability to use initiative, solve problems, and plan solutions
- Ability to network and share best practices
- Understanding of Widening Participation and progression/recruitment issues for underrepresented groups
- Flexible, positive, and able to handle difficult conversations
- Desirable: experience implementing policies, supervising teams, understanding regional educational issues, data protection knowledge, data analysis and reporting
- Strong communication and relationship-building
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Problem-solving and initiative
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Data handling and reporting (HEAT)
- General digital literacy across devices and apps
Schools Outreach and Widening Participation Assistant Manager (Uni Connect) in Durham employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Strategic Pre-Award Grants Manager, you will benefit from a dynamic environment that values innovation and teamwork, while also enjoying access to comprehensive training opportunities and a commitment to work-life balance in the vibrant city of Durham.
