Program Overview

Introduction to the Aurora Initiative

The Aurora initiative is a leadership development program designed for women in academic and professional roles. It is run by Advance HE, a higher education institution, and aims to address the under-representation of women in leadership positions.

Program Overview

Aurora is a unique partnership that brings together leadership experts and higher education institutions to provide a comprehensive leadership development program. The program is designed for women up to senior lecturer level or the professional services equivalent, who are looking to develop and explore issues relating to leadership roles and responsibilities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Aurora program, participants must:

• Be women up to senior lecturer level or the professional services equivalent
• Be working in a university, college, or related organization
• Have the endorsement of their line manager
• Be committed to developing and enhancing their career

Program Structure

The Aurora program consists of:

• A welcome and introduction session
• Four development days
• Two action learning set days
• An in-person event day
• Self-directed learning and reflection

Time Commitment

Delegates are expected to attend all sessions, arrange 4-6 mentoring meetings, and have time for reflection. The program requires a significant time commitment, including:

• Welcome and introduction session: 10am to 1pm
• Four workshops: 10am to 3pm
• Two action learning set days: 10am to 3pm
• In-person event day: 10am to 4pm

Cost and Funding

There is no central funding for Aurora, and delegates are responsible for meeting the funding cost. The program fee is ｣995 for early bird bookings and ｣1,100 for bookings made after August 1st.

Mentoring

Aurora delegates are expected to select an appropriate mentor to support them on their development journey. Mentors can be from within or outside the University of Edinburgh.

Testimonials

Previous participants have praised the Aurora program, citing its helpfulness in developing new knowledge and skills, networking with other female leaders, and empowering them to contribute to constructive dialogue.

Program Dates

The 2025/26 cohort dates are available, with six regional cohorts across the UK and Ireland. The Scotland in-person event will be held at the Sheraton Hotel on Friday, January 16th, 2026.

Registering Interest

Delegates can register their interest for the 2026/27 cohorts by completing a form, and they will be emailed as soon as the dates are available.

Further Information

Further information regarding the Aurora initiative, including case studies and testimonials, is available from the Advance HE web pages.