The following grades are eligible to apply:

• Academic and Research Staff: Grade 1
• Academic and Research Staff: Grade 2
• Academic and Research Staff: Grade 3
• Professional Services Support Staff: Grade 4
• Professional Services Support Staff: Grade 5
• Professional Services Support Staff: Grade 6
• Professional Services Academic Related: Grade 7
• Professional Services Academic Related: Grade 8

• A two-day workshop on 18 and 19 March 2026

• Two group coaching sessions on 15 April and 13 April 2026 (approximately 2 hours each) 

• Pre-programme activities (approximately 1 hour) 

We require your line manager's endorsement for you to participate. They will receive an 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 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. This will happen twice within 80 days of finishing the workshop. You'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: Demonstrate a clear interest in taking ownership of your career development and a desire for greater confidence and direction.
• Growth Potential: Show potential to grow, lead, or positively contribute to your team or department with appropriate support.
• Diversity Considerations: Women from underrepresented groups or those facing systemic barriers (e.g., Black women, disabled women, carers) are especially encouraged to apply.
• Full Commitment: Willingness to attend both workshop days and the two follow-up sessions, with openness to reflection and active participation.
• Management Support: Have support from your line manager for attendance (where time release is needed).
• Contribute to Community: Willingness to participate in a collaborative learning environment valuing lived experience and mutual encouragement.