Programme Officer: Higher Education Access

Job Description

Programme Officer: Higher Education AccessReports to: Head of DestinationsLocation: White City, LondonContract: PermanentPattern: Full TimeClosing date: 10am on 19 November 2021Salary: £32,000 - £40,000 (flexible for an outstanding applicant)About therole:The Programme Officer: Higher Education Access will be essential to the achievement of our post 18 destinations goals. Network post 18 destinations data suggest we outperform most providers on progression to top third HEIs yet we know this is not enough- ensuring students progress not just to a top university but to a best fit top university is key to both sustainability and future career success. This means we need to build deep relationships with a range of top third and super-selective institutions -to ensure our schools are working with the universities where our students are most likely to thrive. Providing a range of bespoke engagement opportunities with these institutions for staff and students across all Key Stages will allow us to improve the qualityand consistency of schools provision, while reducing costs.Key Responsibilities and Duties:Higher Education Partnerships Develop and build deep relationships with top third and Russell Group universities, including Oxbridge and other highly selective institutions/pathways.Work with partner HEIs to build and deliver a comprehensive programme of bespoke outreach and engagement activities for Ark students and staff that add demonstrable value to school provision in terms of capacity, cost and quality - such as:Higher EducationAccess Develop network approaches to supporting students in KS5 with HE IAG and applications that ensure the achievement of our network goal of at least 70% progression to top third HEIs (or equivalent apprenticeships) by 2022. Develop relationships with otherstrategic partners to support IAG for university (and professional careers) and assist Ark students to progress to best fit top third HEIs. Build on the strongest practice in our schools and leverage HE partnerships to shape additional opportunities forstudents to develop the skills, character and academic confidence that will support their transition to HE and contribute to high levels of persistence. Work directly with targeted school sixth forms to address access concerns and achieve year on year gainsin the proportion of students progressing to top third HEIs.Other Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Sixth Form and Destinations team to support progression to top apprenticeships and other work-based routes into professional careers. Contributeproactively to the wider development of Sixth Form and Destinations team strategy.Key Requirements:Education & Qualifications Educated to degree level Right to work in the UKKnowledge and Experience Extensive knowledge and experience of the post 18 destinationslandscape; UCAS and selective HEI admissions processes, degree and higher apprenticeships and Gatsby benchmarks and statutory expectations of CEIAG Experience of contributing to the development of strategy. Delivery against ambitious and stretching goals.Experience of working with and influencing a range of stakeholders, sometimes with conflicting priorities and viewpoints. Ability to synthesise complex and detailed projects into both written and oral presentations for senior stakeholders. Knowledge and experienceof virtual learning environments and online platforms that support destinations work. Strong track record of being a self-starter.Personal Characteristics Able to demonstrate a commitment to the mission of improving educational opportunities for underprivilegedchildren. Highly organized, detail oriented and systematic in delivering against ambitious objectives. Able to respond positively to setbacks. Flexible in approach and able to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities. Confident, proactive and hard-workingteam player - happy to go above and beyond for their colleagues.Benefits 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising with each year of service We are committed to providing high-quality professional learning throughout your career with us and offer a varietyof training sessions and experiences designed to meet your needs Access to Ark Rewards scheme offering savings from over 3,000 major retailers, interest-free loans available for season tickets or a bicycle and gym discounts offering up to 40% off your localgymAbout ArkArk is an international charity, transforming lives through education. We exist to give every young person, regardless of their background, a great education and real choices in life. In the UK, we are a network of 38 schools, educating around28,500 pupils in areas where we can make the biggest difference. We also incubate start-up programmes (Ark Ventures) that improve the education system.How to Apply:Apply with a CV and cover letter on our online recruitment portal. Applications to be submittedby 10am on 19 November 2021 but please note: we will be reviewing applications on an on-going basis and this advert may close earlier than advertised depending on the level of response.Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of childrenand young people; all successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.Ark Schools are committed to attracting, developing and retaining a diverse workforce, with a broad range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.