DANCOP Outreach Facilitator

The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Collaborative Outreach Partnership (DANCOP) is a Uni Connect partnership led by the University of Derby, including the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University, Chesterfield College, Nottingham College, Derby College Group, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, and University of Derby Buxton. DANCOP works in partnership with a wide range of stakeholders including EMCCA Careers Hub and Local Authorities. 

The purpose of DANCOP is to work closely with partnership higher educational institutions and colleges to help improve social mobility, focusing on raising educational standards from early years, through school and beyond; inspiring young people to shape their own futures. 

DANCOP are seeking an Outreach Facilitator to join our high performing Collaboration and Engagement team. This diverse and rewarding role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people aged 11 to 19 across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. 

Working closely with our community partners, you will help ensure DANCOP's outreach activities achieve maximum reach and impact, delivering engaging, relevant and high-quality programmes that are effectively monitored and evaluated.

As an Outreach Facilitator, you will support the development, delivery and evaluation of the outreach programme and associated activities, contributing to the achievement of our Office for Students (OfS) objectives. The role involves designing and delivering engaging outreach initiatives that raise awareness of higher education opportunities, increase attainment, and inspire ambition among young people from groups currently under-represented in higher education. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual who is passionate about widening participation, empowering learners, and helping them realise their future aspirations.

As a significant part of the role involves delivering activities and building relationships in schools and colleges across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, regular travel is required. Candidates must therefore have the flexibility to travel and work between university and external sites in a cost effective and timely manner.

This is a fixed term contract until 30th June 2027.

Anticipated interview date: Thursday 1st October 2026

We are looking for someone who has first-hand experience of higher education and a strong understanding of the challenges that can prevent young people from accessing it. You will be passionate about widening participation and committed to helping young people realise their potential, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as you will be engaging with a diverse range of young people, many of whom may face significant barriers to opportunity. Your ability to build positive relationships, inspire confidence and communicate effectively will be key to success in this role.

The role is varied and fast-paced, requiring the ability to balance multiple priorities and manage competing demands while maintaining your own wellbeing and resilience.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference to young people's lives. Flexibility is important, as the role will occasionally require evening and weekend working to support events and outreach activities.

1. Support the Collaboration and Engagement Team to prepare, and deliver high quality, innovative specialist outreach activities, in line with the ambitions of DANCOP.
2. Lead on the delivery of a wide range of on campus, and in school activity as required.
3. To support the production of a range of high quality, innovative and creative materials and resources, including digital resources, for widening access target groups, parents/carers, teachers and careers advisors.
4. Be an outstanding, professional representative of DANCOP and provide up-to-date expert information on Higher Education and progression routes, and university life to DANCOP target groups and their key influencers.
5. As directed, liaise with internal and external staff to ensure the smooth running of events and the delivery of the highest levels of customer service. Cultivate positive working relationships with key Stakeholders.
6. Record all activities and other agreed information as required by DANCOP and appropriate external agencies for evaluation, statistical returns and reporting progress against targets and measuring success.
7. Actively engage in reflective, evidence-based practice and implement measures to improve evaluation and working practice based on evidence from your own practice and the wider sector.
8. Successfully manage ad hoc small-scale projects as directed.
9. Understand and display University of Derby values and behaviours appropriate to the level of post.
10. Actively engage in reflective practice, continuing professional development and lifelong learning activities.
11. Carry out duties in a safe and proper manner to comply with the University’s Health & Safety Policy, Safeguarding Policy and Equal Opportunities Policy.