This cohort is open to women who meet both criteria:

• You are an academic on a scholarship, research or practice pathway, and 
• You have returned from family-related leave within the last three academic years (2023–24, 2024–25 or 2025–26).

• A two-day workshop on 2 and 3 December 2027

• Two online peer group coaching sessions in late January and late February (approximately 2 hours each) 

• Pre-programme activities (approximately 1.5 - 2 hours) 

We require your line manager's endorsement for you to participate. They will receive an automated email asking them to confirm that they:

1. Support for your participation in the programme 
2. Agree to release you for all programme elements 
3. Commit to supporting your development during and after the programme, and
4. Identify specific ways with you to apply your learning 

The 2-day workshop follows a carefully designed, proven approach that maximises learning, reflection, and meaningful connections. Sessions include:

1. Plenary Sessions – Engaging discussions and insights shared with the full group of 30 participants.
2. Small Group Work – Deep conversations and peer support in groups of six, guided by an expert career coach.
3. Pair Work – Dedicated time for quality listening, structured thinking, and mutual reflection.
4. Individual Reflection – Space to process insights, set intentions, and integrate learning.

This dynamic structure ensures a powerful and transformative experience, drawing on methods that have been tested and refined for impact.

You'll be invited to rejoin your small group for two online peer group coaching sessions. This is where your small group coach will bring you back together to share your experiences of implementing your career action plan. You will reflect on what's been going well and what's been challenging. You will be given a framework to be able to support each other to unblock challenges and work through issues.Yo u'll be encouraged to continue working in the group for as long as feels relevant and helpful to you. 

To be considered for the Career Accelerator Programme, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Career Readiness: You should be at a transition point—considering your next step, feeling stuck, or ready for advancement.
• Motivation & Commitment: Demonstrate a strong motivation to participate with clear reasons. Realistic plan for managing programme demands alongside existing responsibilities.
• Growth Potential: Show potential to contribute more effectively to your role, team or institution with increased clarity and confidence.
• Collaborative Learning: Openness to collaborative learning, peer support, and contributing to an inclusive environment. Includes considerations of under-representation and limited prior development access. 
• Diversity Considerations: Women from underrepresented groups or those facing systemic barriers (e.g., Black women, disabled women, carers) are especially encouraged to apply.

Access the full application selection criteria