Launch of a new Advocacy Group

Call for working group chairs and members

Purpose

ALDinHE are establishing an Advocacy Working Group that champions the visibility, value, and impact of Learning Development (LD) as a concept and profession and ALDinHE as its Professional Association. The group will provide clarity on what LD is, why it matters, and evidence

Rationale and work of the group

LD professionals face increasing challenges, including budget cuts and structural changes. Advocacy is essential to ensure LD is recognised as a profession with values that underpin practice. By articulating LD’s contribution to student success and institutional goals, we strengthen its position – and the visibility of ALDinHE – in UK higher education.

Objectives

* Create a terms of reference for the advocacy working group.
* Develop a clear case for LD: what it is, why it matters, and how we know it works.
* Advocate for LD as a profession with professional values that inform practice.
* Provide practical resources (toolkits) to help members defend and promote LD within their institutions.
* Include student voices to evidence LD’s impact.
* Raise the visibility of ALDinHE as the Professional Association and explore partnerships in future phases.
* Communicate to the community objectives and specific outputs that will be delivered.

Activities

To achieve the objectives, the group will:
* Produce an Advocacy Toolkit as the initial deliverable, including:
(a) Key messages about LD’s value and impact
(b) Evidence and case studies (including student experiences)
(c) Guidance for responding to institutional challenges
* Host webinars and workshops to support members in using the toolkit.
* Develop position papers and briefing notes for future advocacy work.
* Plan for phased expansion into partnerships and sector engagement.

In summary, there will be an initial tight remit to focus on producing the toolkit before expanding the scope. The Advocacy group will collaborate with other ALDinHE groups and later with external partnerships.

Outcomes and impact

The Advocacy Working Group will:
* Create clear, accessible resources to help LD professionals advocate effectively.
* Support increased recognition of LD as a profession with values and impact – and of ALDinHE as its Professional Association.
* Demonstrate stronger alignment between LD practice and institutional strategy.
* Create the foundation for future partnerships and sector influence.

Membership and structure

The advocacy working group will be led by a Chair, Deputy Chair and supported by a core team of volunteers.

The working group is open to:

* ALDinHE institutional staff members interested in advocacy, policy, and strategic influence.
* LD professionals who work at an institutional member, at all career stages
* Institutional staff members with experience or interest in advocacy, policy, or strategic engagement
* Institutional staff members who are keen to contribute to collaborative projects and practical outputs.

Why Get Involved?

Influence national strategy in learning development.
Collaborate with working groups and advisory teams.
Enhance visibility and impact of ALDinHE’s work.
Gain experience in the operation of the association with people from other institutions.
Develop professional skills that can translate to careers in and out of academia.
Demonstrate impact for professional accreditations, eg. ALDinHE, AdvanceHE.
Develop new insights into current trends and initiatives in the LD community.
Opportunity to take responsibility in a chosen area.
A chance to step outside of normal routine to become more objective.
Benefit from knowledge exchange, share practice and influence a culture of collaboration.
Contribute to a vibrant, supportive professional community in a voluntary capacity.

Expectations of membership

* All working group members are encouraged to begin working towards ALDinHE fellowship status within 18 months of joining the group.

* Monthly meetings will take place with members expected to attend at least 75% of meetings across the year.

* Plus 1-2 hours a month are likely required to complete actions.

Deadline for applications

The deadline for applications is Monday 22 December 2025

Interview window

Interviews will be held at a mutually agreed time in the week commencing 19th January 2026. Successful candidates will commence the role on the 26th February 2026.

How to apply

Expressions of interest are welcome from ALDinHE institutioanl members with relevant experience, enthusiasm, and capacity. To apply, please complete the application form below:

Advocacy Application

Name(Required)

Email(Required)

Name of the institution / organisation(Required)

Current job role(Required)

How long have you worked in an LD role for?(Required)

Provide a statement (300 - 500 words) outlining:(Required)

1. Your interest in joining or leading / co-leading the group. 2. Relevant experience or perspectives you bring. 3. What you hope to contribute or gain.

Please state which role(s) you are applying for.(Required)

Select all that apply.

Member

Deputy Chair

Chair

If you have any questions or wish to discuss further please email admin@aldinhe.ac.uk to discuss with ALDinHE’s Chair, Kate Coulson.