Program leaders play a critical role in higher education institutions, managing the entire lifecycle of degree courses and significantly impacting student experience, outcomes, and sense of belonging. These roles require leadership across diverse groups, often without formal line management authority, demanding strong interpersonal skills, organisational capabilities, and the ability to translate institutional policies into practical implementation.
Enhancing Program Leadership provides valuable support in managing these different priorities. Participants can connect with each other and distinguished guest speakers to discuss their shared challenges.
Having the time to reflect on how to approach this form of leadership, with the support and guidance of those delivering and participating in the program supports renewed confidence to take a positive and proactive approach to leadership responsibilities.
Why should you take part in the program?
The program is aimed at Program Leaders or Directors, Course Leaders or Directors, and Year or Unit Leaders. By taking part in the program, participants will:
- be able to undertake analysis of learning and teaching challenges and generate solutions to bring about change in the short and longer term.
- understand how and when to apply influencing skills, considering how these interrelate with and are underpinned by power, empathy and trust.
- be able to articulate their vision for positively leading and sustaining change in learning and teaching at their institution.
A great programme for early to mid-career academics, new to programme or department leadership and change. The programme empowers participants with the essence of pertinent theories and people-enhancing skills to implement effective and sustainable change.
Jenny Poskitt, Director of College Projects, Massey University, New Zealand
Program lead, Ian Solomonides, introduces the program and what participants can expect in this video.
Program delivery team
Ian Solomonides
External Consultant, Honorary Professor
Ian is the former DVCA (retired) at Victoria University. Having worked for over 30 years in higher education he has occupied a diversity of roles, including in study support, teaching, program leadership, innovation, quality enhancement and assurance, and as a senior executive. He now consults with several institutions on projects associated with the quality of student learning.
Laura Fairbrother
Associate Director Curriculum, Assessment and Teaching Development, Charles Darwin University
Laura is a dedicated and highly skilled curriculum and learning specialist who leads collaborative teaching, training, and professional learning across a variety of international contexts. Laura focuses on building capability to enhance quality teaching and learning in higher education, and she is a strong advocate for continued professional learning.
The Advance HE Enhancing Programme Leadership course was well-organised and offered plenty of practical ideas and activities across the four sessions. I especially valued the small group discussions, which gave us a chance to share experiences and challenges with colleagues from other institutions across Australasia. Those conversations were insightful, and we’ve agreed to keep in touch beyond the programme.
Maggie Hartnett, Director – Teaching Academy, Massey University
