Participation Officer

Nature & Duration of Contract

Permanent Wholetime Contract

A reserve list may be created for the filling of this post. This reserve list may be used if this post becomes vacant again within twelve months.

Department / Function

Student Services

Reporting To

Head of Access, Widening Participation and Sport

Location

Any ATU Campus

Essential Qualifications and Skills

Candidates must:

• Have the requisite knowledge, skills and competencies to carry out the role to a high standard;

• Be capable and competent of fulfilling the role to a high standard;

• An honours Level 8 degree preferably in Social Science, Education, Community Development, Public or relevant discipline [as specified in the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)].

Desirable Qualifications and Skills

• A Postgraduate qualification preferably in Social Science, Education, Community Development, Public or relevant discipline.

• A minimum of 3 years’ relevant work experience in third level education sector working with students experiencing educational or social disadvantage.

• Familiarity with the National Access Plan (NAP).

Overview of the Role

ATU is committed to providing access to third level education for student cohorts that are underrepresented in Higher Education with equality of opportunity and an enhanced individual student experience for all students.

The post holder will play a key role in widening participation by strengthening engagement between the University and DEIS schools, Further Education (FE) providers, and community organisations. The post focuses on promoting awareness of higher education pathways, supporting underrepresented learners, and fostering sustainable partnerships that enhance access, transition, and success.

Duties

Working with Schools (particularly DEIS Schools)

• Develop and maintain partnerships with targeted DEIS schools and other post-primary providers to promote awareness of university access routes, supports, and student life.

• Coordinate and support outreach activities such as campus visits, mentoring, subject tasters, and information sessions for students, parents, and teachers.

• Support the design and delivery of sustained engagement programmes that build confidence and aspiration among learners from underrepresented backgrounds.

• Liaise with school leaders and guidance counsellors to identify students who may benefit from access or progression supports.

• Develop, organise and manage a Summer and Easter Programme for targeted disadvantaged students (second level and FET).

Working with Further Education Providers

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with FE colleges, Youthreach centres, and other further education and training (FET) partners to strengthen progression pathways to higher education.

• Support transition initiatives for FE students progressing to university, including bridging, orientation, and mentoring activities.

• Share information on admissions routes (e.g., FET Progression Pathways, Access courses) and support pre-entry guidance sessions.

• Gather and analyse data on participation and progression trends to inform planning.

Working with Community Organisations

• Engage with community and voluntary organisations working with underrepresented learners.

• Co-develop outreach and educational awareness projects that reflect local needs and priorities.

• Represent the University in local and regional education networks to promote collaboration and inclusive participation.

• Facilitate communication between the University and community partners to support mutual learning and trust-building.

Internal Collaboration and Reporting

• Work closely with colleagues in the Access and Widening Participation Office, Schools Liaison team, and Academic Faculties to align outreach and access efforts.

• Contribute to the delivery of the University’s reporting requirements internally and externally.

• Maintain accurate records of engagement activities, outcomes, and learner progression.

• Support evaluation and continuous improvement of access and participation initiatives.

• Participate on committees, both internal and external as appropriate and as required by the Access and Widening Participation Service.

• Any other duties as may be specified from time to time.

Salary

Salary Scale Grade VI: (€57,324 – €70,033)

*Candidates external to the sector may be appointed up to the 3rd Point (€60,356) of the Salary Scale in accordance with University Policy.

Hours of Work

35 hours per week