Aurora: Women in Higher Education Leadership Programme

About Aurora

The Aurora programme is an Advance HE initiative designed to inspire and encourage women in academic and professional roles in higher education to consider leadership in their career and develop themselves as leaders.

It is aimed at women up to senior lecturer level and professional services equivalent.

Each Aurora cohort comprises a number of elements designed to provide a practical, engaging and often inspirational learning experience for the participants. The structure of the programme includes:

  • a Welcome and Introduction Webinar
  • four development days
  • two action learning sets.

It is accompanied by a series of additional optional networking events.  

More information can be found on the Advance HE website

When is it?

There are a number of cohorts that run at different times between September and July each year. Participants are able to select the cohort that best suits them. 

What support do I get?

Each participant will be matched with a mentor to encourage and support them, advise on institutional processes and culture, and highlight both challenges and paths to success.

How do I apply?

To apply, send a completed copy of the Application form to staff-learning@brookes.ac.uk.

All applications must be received by 5.00pm on 15 August 2025 or by 5.00pm on 25 July if applying for the early bird discount. 

Please be aware that Funding for the Aurora programme is provided by the participant's Directorate/Faculty. You will need to have the support of your line manager and Dean/Director as part of the application process.    

Contact us

More information can be found on the Advance HE website or by contacting staff-learning@brookes.ac.uk.

  • Brookes Aurora Champion: Abigail Reilly