The focus for each programme varies from year to year and is determined through discussion with Deans, FOOS and Athena/EDI leads using information from staff surveys and other relevant sources.
The 2018 programme was for senior lecturers/clinical senior lecturers, and the 2020 programme was for lecturers/clinical lecturers and independent fellows at a similar stage of their career.

Programmes use a mix of facilitated sessions (virtual or face to face), psychometrics and coaching.
Typical content includes:

• Managing own career pathway
• Challenges and opportunities
• Impact and identity
• Negotiating and influencing
• Building a strategy – networking, mentoring, citizenship

There is no selection process open at present.

The Academic Women’s Programme reflects the College’s commitment to advancing the careers of academic women in STEMM subjects and addressing the “leaky pipeline” that results in the number of women decreasing along the academic career pathway. The intention is to increase the pool of talented women and ultimately improve representation at a senior leadership level.

Athena Swan activities at department and college level focus on structural and cultural barriers: looking for ways to change and improve policies and practices so that women academics (and their male counterparts) can thrive and progress according to merit. Academic Women’s Programme provides opportunities for individual women to build skills and strategies to support further career progression and provides a confidential and supportive environment to share experiences, explore challenges and develop tools and techniques for the future.

"Time and space to think proactively about goals, career and day to day efficiency"
"The programme has raised my awareness of many aspects: myself, as a leader, as a communicator, a scientist."
"I am more effective day-to-day and a bit more strategic."
"Understanding what we are expected to do at this career level."
"Great new connections and network"