Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice; ODP

About The Job

The Faculty of Health, Sport and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Northampton is entering a phase of growth within the School of Health, beginning with the creation of a brand‑new BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice programme, with an integrated apprenticeship route, launching in September 2027. We are seeking an exceptional Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice to lead the development of this innovative new degree from concept, through validation, and into successful delivery.

This is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to shape a new programme that will influence the future of ODP education and perioperative practice. As an Operating Department Practitioner registered with the HCPC and the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP), you will bring your professional expertise, creative thinking, and leadership to a School that values innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Working closely with the school leadership team, you will design and co‑create an effective, future‑focused curriculum that reflects the full scope of contemporary perioperative practice and responds to emerging priorities across surgical care, anaesthesia, and post‑operative recovery. You will embed simulation‑based education, applied learning, and authentic assessment throughout the programme, supported by networks, modern facilities, and an engaged portfolio of established health courses.

• Setting the vision, identity and standards for the new programme
• Leading the programme to a successful validation process with the HCPC
• Ensuring high levels of academic quality, governance, and professional alignment
• Driving continuous improvement and inspiring students to achieve at the highest level
• Networking and collaborating with external partners, seeking opportunities for knowledge exchange, research, and CPD delivery

You will join a supportive and forward‑thinking School where creativity and academic growth are actively encouraged. With a committed leadership team alongside you, you will have both the autonomy and the backing to bring your ideas to life and to shape an outstanding student experience.

If you are passionate about Operating Department Practice education, excited by course design and leadership, and motivated by the chance to make a lasting impact on the profession, we would be delighted to hear from you.

We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.

This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.

You will be an experienced, forward‑thinking Operating Department Practice educator or practitioner who is excited by the opportunity to build something new and meaningful. You will bring a clear vision for ODP education at UON, underpinned by a commitment to high‑quality learning and a excellent understanding of emerging evidence, professional standards, and future workforce needs across the perioperative environment.

You will have experience in curriculum design, teaching, or practice‑based education, and you will be confident in leading academic development from concept through to implementation. Your ability to think creatively, work collaboratively, and engage colleagues, partners, and students will be central to shaping the success of this new programme.

You will thrive in an environment that values innovation and teamwork, and you will be motivated by the opportunity to influence professional education at a strategic level. With good communication skills, excellent organisation, and a student‑centred approach, you will be committed to creating high‑quality learning experiences that reflect contemporary perioperative practice and evolving professional expectations.

Most importantly, you will bring…