At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives to support underrepresented students and enhance their university experience.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a leader in educational excellence and student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a commitment to diversity and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and champion diversity in education.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field and substantial experience in higher education leadership.
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £48,822 to £56,535 (Full-Time/Indefinite)
Closing Date: Friday 10 July 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 0519-26
Please note: this job is only available to current employees of Lancaster University
Flexible Working: Open to flexible working arrangements
Are you a dedicated educational leader with a passion for Widening Participation and Student Success? This is an exciting opportunity to join Lancaster University as the Head of Widening Participation and Early Intervention. This leadership role is essential for operational success, ensuring the embedding and integration of the University’s Widening Participation and Student Experience agenda.
Purpose Of The Role
You will lead a multi-disciplinary team that delivers a seamless support framework across the entire student lifecycle. You will oversee Early Intervention and Widening Participation initiatives to attract high-quality students from underrepresented backgrounds and provide essential support for their success.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Oversight and Team Leadership: Lead the Early Intervention Team, Student Mobility, and Student Success teams. Recruit, induct, and manage a diverse group of specialist staff. Operationalise the Access and Participation Plan (APP) by translating high‑level targets into measurable deliverables.
- Service Delivery: Embed wellbeing support into the student experience, particularly for vulnerable groups. Monitor and evaluate student progression to identify and close attainment gaps.
- Programme Management: Design and oversee wellbeing early intervention activities. Maintain robust data and safeguarding standards across all team activities.
- Financial and Resource Management: Manage complex budgets and ensure financial accountability. Identify opportunities among teams to enhance the student experience.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Represent the University at regional and national levels. Collaborate with academic departments and external partners.
Person Specification
- Qualifications: A degree or equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field.
- Experience: Substantial experience in leading widening participation and student success in Higher Education; proven full line management; managing budgets; expert knowledge of the OfS regulatory environment and the social mobility agenda.
- Skills: Strong presentation and analytical skills with a data‑driven approach; ability to handle confidential matters sensitively in line with GDPR obligations; demonstrates awareness and alignment with University values.
How To Apply
To apply for this role, please submit your application form by [insert application deadline]. For informal queries, please contact Michou Burckett St Laurent, Head of Student Support and Wellbeing at m.burckettstlaurent@lancaster.ac.uk.
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity and equality of opportunity.
Head of Widening Participation and Early Intervention - 0519-26 employer: Lancaster University
Lancaster University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that prioritises student wellbeing and success. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements and opportunities to lead impactful initiatives in widening participation. Located in the vibrant city of Lancaster, staff enjoy a supportive culture that values diversity and fosters collaboration across disciplines.
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We think this is how you could land Head of Widening Participation and Early Intervention - 0519-26
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Widening Participation and Early Intervention - 0519-26
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Lancaster 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!
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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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster University
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Lancaster University might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
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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 Lancaster University.
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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.
