Job Description
About the Role
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about education, widening participation, and student engagement to make a real impact.
As a Regional Student Recruitment and Access Officer, you will represent the University of Reading across the South Coast, working directly with schools, colleges, and communities to encourage young people—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—to consider higher education.
Your work will focus on:
- Delivering outreach programmes and recruitment activities
Supporting prospective students through the application and decision-making process
Building strong partnerships with schools, colleges, and local stakeholders
Increasing both applications and enrolments from the region
This is a field-based role requiring frequent travel, with occasional visits to the Reading campus for meetings, events, and planning sessions.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Design and deliver targeted student outreach and engagement initiatives
Support applicants during key stages of the student recruitment cycle
Develop relationships with schools across the South Coast (from Weymouth to Bexhill)
Analyse regional trends to improve recruitment strategies
Collaborate closely with the central Student Recruitment and Outreach team
About You
You will be someone who is confident, organised, and passionate about supporting students.
Essential requirements:
- A first degree (or equivalent qualification)
Experience in student recruitment, outreach, or a similar role
Strong understanding of the UK education system and admissions process
Ability to work independently and manage your own schedule
Excellent interpersonal skills and experience working with diverse groups
Experience building relationships with external partners and stakeholders
Travel & Flexibility
This role involves regular travel across:
- Hampshire
Sussex
Dorset
You should be comfortable working remotely, managing travel schedules, and maintaining regular communication with colleagues based in Reading.
 Safeguarding Responsibilities
This role involves working with young people and is subject to strict safeguarding requirements.
- You will be expected to:
- Complete safeguarding training and follow university policies
Conduct risk assessments for events and outreach activities
Report any concerns through the appropriate safeguarding procedures - An Enhanced DBS check (including child barred list) is required
This role is classified as a regulated activity and is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
 Recruitment Timeline
- Application Deadline: 29 April 2026 (23:59)
Interviews: 12 May 2026
Includes a pre-interview task and presentation
 Visa & Work Eligibility
Due to the complexity of UK visa requirements, applicants needing sponsorship are advised to review eligibility before applying. Visa options will only be discussed with shortlisted candidates.
 UK Government Guidance
For more information about working and compliance requirements in the UK, you may find the following official resources useful:
- Skilled Worker visa overview
- Visa eligibility requirements
Right to work in the UK
DBS checks and safeguarding
Safeguarding children guidance