Senior Support and Retention Adviser

The University of Winchester has an exciting opportunity to join the Department for Student Support and Success as a Senior Support and Retention Adviser.  The University has a long-standing commitment to providing students with support and guidance to help provide a positive student experience and engagement.  Good quality support, both at an individual and cohort level, plays an important role in the retention of students, the motivation of students to build confidence for student success (progression and employability) and in building a strong sense of a learning community. To enhance the support offered to students, the University developed a model of focused support in each of our Faculties to be led by the team of Support and Retention Advisers (SARAs) (previously known as Student Support & Success Advisers / SSSA).

Based within the SARA team. You will work with the Head of Mental Wellbeing to support the team, particularly at times of high demand for the service. You will also take a lead role in collating and presenting data regarding student engagement and retention. This will involve working closely with senior colleagues across the institution to identify key areas where retention of students can be supported.

You will need to be proactive and able to work collaboratively with staff across a range of disciplines.

You will design and deliver training and support for staff on a range of topics including the Academic Engagement Procedures, Support to Study and use of the Academic Engagement Dashboard.

You will play an important part in supporting positive student engagement with the University, enhance the student experience, facilitate student retention and build confidence and aspiration amongst the student body. Our ideal candidate will play a key role in creating an active learning community and developing interventions to address areas of concern at a Faculty or programme level.

Applications are welcome from those with the demonstrable knowledge and experience of providing guidance and support to people in distress.  It is essential that applicants have the required skills to offer support to students during their transition into Higher Education and throughout their studies.  Educated to undergraduate level, our ideal candidate will be compassionate, empathetic and flexible whilst recognizing and maintaining boundaries.

As an employee at the University of Winchester, we are committed to your wellbeing and development. You will have access to a wide range of benefits and support including:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Holiday entitlement of 24 days per year rising by 5 days after 5 years’ service and the option to buy extra leave up to a maximum of 35 days
• Discounts at many retailers, restaurants and entertainment
• Free wellbeing events including weekly exercise classes
• Contributory pension scheme
• On site gym and sports facilities

To apply, please click on the Apply button, above.

Please note that posts close at midnight on the date stated.

Late applications will not be accepted.  

Current employees, please login to e-recruitment with your University staff username & password details using the 'Existing user login' link. 

Closing Date:  17 June 2025

Interview Date: 7 July 2025

To educate, to advance knowledge and to serve the common good.

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