Widening Participation & Outreach Officer

University of Surrey; Guildford; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Guildford is seeking a full-time Widening Participation & Outreach Officer. The role involves developing, implementing, and evaluating outreach programmes to raise aspirations among under-represented groups. The ideal candidate will have strong organisational and presentation skills, confidence in delivery to diverse age groups, and a commitment to inclusivity. Competitive salary, market-leading pension, and generous leave are offered. Travel and family benefits are also available.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Market leading Pension

25 Days annual leave + 7 University Days + Bank Holidays

Travel & Family benefits including subsidised rail fare

Access to world-class leisure facilities

Qualifications

• Experience working with or living as part of an under-represented group is an asset.
• Ability to develop programmes for various age groups including primary, secondary, and college students.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for developing and evaluating targeted outreach programmes.
• Collaborate with local schools and community groups.
• Ensure access and participation targets are met under the WPS strategy.

Skills

Excellent organisation skills

Event management skills

Confidence in delivering presentations

Ability to work independently

Motivated and enthusiastic

Education

QTS or similar qualifications/experience

Job description

An opportunity has arisen for a full-time appointment in the University of Surrey's Widening Participation and Success (WPS) Team.

As a Widening Participation & Outreach Officer, you will be responsible for the development, implementation and evaluation of a range of high-quality, targeted programmes of activity that raise the aspiration and attainment of learners from under-represented groups and will work under the overall direction of the Head of Widening Participation & Success to ensure that the Institution’s Widening Participation strategy and Access and Participation targets and commitments are met.

You will work closely and collaboratively with members of the WPS Team in addition to fostering and maintaining positive relationships with faculty academics, local schools, teachers, advisers, community and cultural groups to engage learners and their supporters.

About You

We are looking for someone that can develop and deliver stimulating and sustained attainment raising activity and informative sessions to a variety of ages including primary, secondary and college students. The post holder should be confident in delivering to learners of all ages and be motivated, enthusiastic and able to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent organisation, time and event management skills are essential and willingness to travel to partner schools and work out of hours is required. QTS or similar qualifications/experience are desirable for this role.

Experience of working with or lived experience of being from an under-represented group such as Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities would be an asset to our team.

Our award-winning, welcoming team are committed to providing inclusive and meaningful change for under-represented students.

What’s in it for you?

We think Surrey is an amazing place to work, and we are carefully crafting a dynamic, flexible, and fun place to work and thrive.

Our campus is a beautiful, leafy environment with carefully designed gardens, vibrant green playing fields, and a picturesque lake. With the buzz of student life and superb working facilities, the University is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research in an inspiring, innovative and diverse environment.

Alongside our gorgeous campus setting, collegiate on-site atmosphere and plentiful development opportunities, we also offer:

• Competitive Salary
• Market leading Pension
• 25 Days annual leave + 7 University Days + Bank Holidays
• Travel & Family benefits including subsidised rail fare, cycle to work scheme and on-site childcare
• Access to world-class leisure facilities at discounted rates

To apply, follow the link below to submit your CV and cover letter detailing your reasons for applying and how you meet the criteria in the job description attached.

For more information on our work, or for a discussion about the role, please contact either:

Rob Thatcher (Head of Widening Participation & Success) [e-mail]

Emily Dunbar (WP Manager (School Partnerships & Attainment) [e-mail]

The University is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.