Academic Lead, Success

INTERNAL CANDIDATES ONLY

This is an exciting secondment opportunity for an internal academic grade 8 or above ASE contracts, or grade 9 to 11 on ASER to apply for the role of Academic Lead, Ready for Success.

You will be responsible for leading the pedagogic design, development, delivery and promotion of the University’s critical Ready for Success courses.

The Ready for Success suite of online courses are a highly successful and key University initiative in preparing our diverse body of students, with their significant variety in previous educational experiences, for study in UK Higher Education. They offer a unique opportunity for a complete educational induction for students preparing for and first entering their chosen level of higher education study in the UK.

Evidence and feedback from the programme finds that students who engage with the programmes offered have significantly higher rates of retention and attainment and that students highly value the course provision. It also features prominently in our Access and Participation Plan, which serves to support equity for students across societally structured barriers to success. Currently the programme offers support and expectations around academic engagement, academic standards and ethics, the use of artificial intelligence systems in higher education, and methods of study within the context of self-directed learning, with the opportunity for the role holder to take a leadership role in the future design and expansion of the courses.

The Ready for Success courses include:

• University Preparation Programme (UPP)
• Essex Preparation Programme (EPP)
• Masters Preparation Programme (MSP)
• Masters Skills Programme (MSP)
• Research Degrees Preparation Programme (RDPP)
• Python Preparation Programme
• Skills @Essex

The role is considered a critical position within the University Education strategy and provision, answering directly to the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education). As such, time is given to staff development and scholarship around pedagogy and learning science developments in support of the role.

Appointment to this role is on 0.6

FTE three-year secondment, with the possibility of renewal.

It is desirable that applicants have doctoral awards (or equivalent) and experience of supervising research degree students to completion. A postgraduate certificate in higher education is also desirable.

On completion of the secondment, you will return to your 'home' department, undertaking the normal range of education, research and leadership/citizenship duties. Throughout the secondment period, 0.6 FTE of your time will be allocated to the Academic Lead role and 0.4

FTE allocated to your substantive role.

To apply , please submit an expression of interest (no longer than two sides of A4) setting out why you should be considered for the role by email to:
quoting reference REQ
09769.

Please see job pack attachment for a full role outline and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role and more information relating to the role.