MEETinLEEDS to Host Think Ahead’s First Summer Institute

Think Ahead – the new fast-track programme for exceptional graduates to become mental health social workers – has picked MEETinLEEDS’ Devonshire Hall to host its inaugural Summer Institute.

Devonshire Hall, a traditional ‘Oxbridge’ style grade II listed building located just a mile outside Leeds city centre, will welcome between 80-100 Think Ahead participants for six weeks in summer 2016, as they begin their exciting journey towards social work qualification.

Harriet Boatwright, MEETinLEEDS’ sales and marketing manager, said: “We’re delighted that Think Ahead has chosen Devonshire Hall for its first Summer Institute. It’s a fabulous venue thanks to its picturesque surroundings including beautiful lawns, courtyards and striking archways.”

“We’re delighted that Think Ahead has chosen Devonshire Hall for its first Summer Institute. It’s a fabulous venue with picturesque surroundings.”

Devonshire Hall provides a state-of-the-art learning environment and also benefits from a choice of smaller rooms perfect for breakout sessions, meaning it is perfectly suited to host Think Ahead’s first cohort, and its team of academic tutors. For down time Devonshire Hall also has an impressive choice of additional facilities including tennis, snooker and a fully-stocked lounge bar.

The Summer Institute will consist of 30 days’ intense learning, which will prepare participants for frontline work by giving a grounding in approaches to mental health social work.

“The curriculum will include teaching, exercises and participatory sessions, and will be delivered in part by people with lived experience of mental ill-health. The residential will also introduce how strong leadership skills are intrinsic to great social work.

During the six weeks participants have a unique opportunity to build networks, exchange ideas with fellow cohort members, and learn from leading experts in the field. The Summer Institute prepares participants for on-the-job learning in local authorities and NHS Mental Health Trusts around England.

Learn more about Think Ahead’s Summer Institute.