Purpose of the Role  

Through linked provision with South East Technological University (SETU), An Cosán delivers professional development BA degree programmes, using a blended delivery model grounded in a holistic, adult community education philosophy. These programmes include Leadership and Community Development, Applied Addiction Studies, and Personal and Professional Development (Levels 6 and 7 on the NFQ). 

The Higher Education Lead will shape and oversee these programmes, ensuring every learner experiences a high-quality, inclusive, and empowering educational journey. This is a key leadership role requiring creativity, collaboration, and a strong commitment to educational equality. 

Key Responsibilities  

• Manage and lead the Teaching and Learning team to deliver all modules to a high standard academically, and in line with community development principles of inclusion, diversity and equality. 
• Project manage delivery of the agreed plan with SETU under the HEA Performance Funding to: 
• Grow and strengthen this Linked Provision Higher Education offering to  
  meet the needs of our targeted learners, and 
• Establish and maintain relevant Linked Provision controls/quality assurance and feedback systems. 
• Schedule the Higher Education Academic Calendar to include assessment, verification, programme evaluation and review.  
• Play an integral role as a core member of the ACE team in quality assurance, delivery of ACE programmes and projects, learner support and the recruitment of learners. 
• Produce appropriate internal and external reports, including the tracking and monitoring of progress and outcomes. 
• Contribute and participate as a representative of An Cosán in policy fora, networks and committees relevant to the work of the Higher Education programme. 

Essential Requirements 

• Relevant qualification in Education / Community Development / Social Studies at minimum of MA Level. 
• Experience in managing people, budgets, quality and projects.  
• Minimum of 3 years teaching and curriculum development experience. 
• Experience of online teaching and learning practice, and educational technologies.  
• Proven focus on results and linking KPIs to Strategic Goals. 
• Strong communication skills 
• Skilled in building relationships and establishing a solid network. 
• Flexibility and ability to work on own initiative and co-operatively. 
• Ability to multi-task, whilst being flexible and highly organised, with excellent time management skills. 
• A strong social inclusion and community development ethos. 

Desirable 

• Understanding of the characteristics and needs of mature adults returning to learning in a community setting.  
• Understanding of the barriers and challenges experienced by adult learners from underrepresented groups in their learning journey.  
• Creative questioning and solution-based approach to challenges.