Educational support staff are essential partners in the successful management of the programme. They often possess extensive knowledge of the programme's history, processes, stakeholders, and day-to-day operations. Building good working relationships with these colleagues will help you stay informed and make well-considered decisions.
Programme Coordinator
The programme coordinator is often your closest collaborator. In addition to handling many of the operational and organisational aspects of the programme, they are a valuable source of information on ongoing developments, practical challenges, and the experiences of both teachers and students.
Regular meetings, preferably on a weekly basis, are strongly recommended. These meetings help to ensure alignment, enable timely problem solving, and provide a clear overview of what is happening within the programme.
The Programme Director and Programme Coordinator together, and where applicable together with the Programme Manager, form the programme's management team. As a team, they are responsible for the effective organisation and continuous improvement of the programme.
Programme Manager
Some programmes are supported by a Programme Manager. In addition to coordinating practical matters, Programme Managers are often involved in tactical planning, policy development, and longer-term programme initiatives.
Because Programme Managers frequently have extensive experience within the programme and faculty, they can provide valuable continuity and institutional knowledge. Regular consultation and clear agreements regarding roles and responsibilities are therefore important.
Study Adviser
Study advisers play a crucial role in supporting individual students throughout their studies. They have regular contact with students regarding study progress, academic planning, and personal or special circumstances that may affect academic performance.
Regular discussions with your study adviser(s) can provide valuable insights into student experiences, recurring challenges, and opportunities for programme improvement. Their observations often help to identify trends and issues that may not yet be visible in formal data and reports.
Bureau of Educational Affairs (BOZ)
The Bureau of Educational Affairs Office (BOZ) provides administrative support for educational programmes, students, and teaching staff. BOZ works closely with Programme Directors and programme support staff on a range of educational processes and procedures.
BOZ supports activities such as managing and updating examination programmes, processing Binding Study Advice (BSA) decisions, organising colloquia, preparing diplomas and certificates, and publishing education-related announcements for students.
While you may not work with BOZ on a daily basis, they are an important source of support for the administrative and procedural aspects of education. Becoming familiar with your faculty's BOZ staff can help you quickly find the right support when needed.
Resources for Instruct Educational Support
