Access and Participation Officer

*This is an internal advert and is therefore only open to current SOAS employees*

Job title: Access & Participation Officer

Department: Access, Experience & Success Team

Contract Type: Fixed-term secondment, Full-Time. Proposed Start Date: 05 October 2026 for 6 months

Grade: Grade 6

Salary: £35,749.57 - £42,207.57 (Inclusive of London Zone Allowance)

Location: Bloomsbury, London

Hours: 35 per week

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East.  SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About the role:

The Access & Participation Officer role is a key role in the Access, Experience and Success team; in this case focussing on the widening participation outreach stage of the student lifecycle. The purpose of the role is to organise and deliver high-quality activities designed to encourage the progression and success of students from a variety of backgrounds into university. You will report to the Access & Participation Manager and work closely with two other Access & Participation Officers, as well as contributing to the work of the broader Access, Experience and Success team.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.

About the Department:

The Access, Experience and Success team is responsible for delivering, monitoring and reviewing initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for students from backgrounds underrepresented in higher education, and takes the lead in activities delivered under the School’s Access and Participation Plans.  The team as a whole works across the student life-cycle, partnering with a range of external partners, including schools, and internally with academic departments and professional services, to create and deliver a varied programme of activities.

What We Offer:

We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 6 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
• Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
• Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
• Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
• Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
• Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.

How to Apply: 

Please complete the online application form and upload a supporting statement

Closing date: 23rd March 2026

Use of AI

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Further information

If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS

For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read our Job Applicant Notice.

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation Higher Education, Black, Asian, other minority ethnic and underrepresented groups from within the UK and beyond. All appointment decisions will be made on merit, following a fair and competitive process.