About the RDS

The RDS is a philanthropic organisation which, since its establishment in 1731, has helped Ireland to thrive culturally and economically. The RDS has a number of income streams which support this mission, including Membership and Fundraising. The RDS currently has around 3,000 Members in its database, some of whom are philanthropic donors of the Foundations programmes in areas such as Arts, Agriculture, Enterprise, Equestrian and Science.

 About the Role

ESB Science Blast is the largest programme under the Foundation and sits under the RDS Science and Technology team. This role reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive – Foundation, will lead in designing, implementing, and reporting on research to identify and propose solutions for schools who have experienced barriers to participation in ESB Science Blast.

The role will target and engage with schools identified as potentially having experienced barriers to enrolling their students in ESB Science Blast. The role will deliver relevant and creative programme resources to support and encourage the participation of Special Education pupils in ESB Science Blast.

The role will work with Special Education pupils and teachers to ensure a positive learning experience for all participants. The role will also assist with stewarding the relationship with current and former ESB Science Blast programme participants, particularly Special Education schools.

Key Responsibilities

·      Design a study to identify barriers to participation for particular schools with ESB Science Blast.

·      Identify, target, and propose solutions for schools who have currently experienced barriers to participating in ESB Science Blast.

·      Communicate and coordinate with 'target' schools.

·      Develop relevant and create programme resources that meet the educational and personal development needs of 'target' schools to help encourage and improve school participation in ESB Science Blast.

·      Conduct research with participating schools.

·      Report on findings and solutions.

·      Provide support at live showcase events.

·      Other requirements as assigned by the Science and Technology Programme Manager. 

Person Specification

Experience

•         Relevant third level qualification.

•         Demonstratable experience in design, implementation, and reporting of research studies.

•         Experience in Primary Special Education (desirable).

•         Qualification or experience in STEM subject / environment.

•         Be able to work within a multi-disciplinary team.

•         Be capable of working on his / her own initiative.

•         Ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders.

•         Commitment to the mission and objectives of the RDS.

Skills

•         Excellent project management skills with strong attention to detail.

•         Excellent communication skills - written, and verbal.

•         Strong teamwork skills, and ability and willingness to work with different stakeholder groups as required.

•         Strong Problem Solving & Analytical Skills.

•         Strong IT skills (MS Office, website & database management).

•         Full drivers licence and access to own transport. 

Application Process and Closing Date

If you are interested in applying for this position, please email your CV to sandra.oneill@rds.ie with the subject line “Outreach and Inclusion Officer”. Please note that the closing date for applications is 30^th April 2024. Any applications received after this date will not be considered.