Think Ahead Autumn Intake 2023

Please note, applications are now closed.

Registrations for the 2024 Summer Intake will open later in the year. If you are interested in applying next year make sure to sign up to our mailing list for the latest information.

For the first time, Think Ahead will be running an Autumn Intake for the 2023 cohort.

We have an opportunity for a small number of trainee mental health social workers to join the programme on 18 September 2023.

A limited number of places will available in the following locations:

  • Blackburn
  • Chester
  • Durham
  • Epsom
  • Hitchin
  • Knowsley
  • Lincoln
  • Luton
  • Preston
  • St Austell
  • Warwick
  • Wirral

Please note these locations may be subject to change.

Register your details

What is the Autumn Intake?

After over 100 trainee mental health social workers started their new careers with us in July 2023, we have another opportunity for a small extra group of trainees to join the programme in September.

Trainees will begin with a four-week online Autumn Institute, starting 18 September, concluding with two days in-person training at Middlesex University on 12 and 13 October. They will then begin a placement at their host organisation on 16 October, joining a unit of fellow trainees.

The Autumn Intake will then continue their studies and work as part of the 2023 cohort, qualifying as mental health social workers in July 2024 and completing their Master’s and Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) in 2025.

How do I apply?

Please note;

  • If you are an employee of one of our existing partners and were invited to apply by your employer, please contact recruitment@thinkahead.org for your next steps.
  • If you were unsuccessful at assessment for the 2023 Summer Intake you will not be able to apply for the Autumn Intake.

The first step is to complete our short registration form.

The application process will follow the route pictured below.

If you are interested in the Autumn Intake we would encourage you to apply as soon as possible. There are only limited placements available and invitations to assessment will be offered on a first come, first serve basis if your application is successful.

For more information, please email recruitment@thinkahead.org.

FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for the Autumn Intake?

You will need to:

  • Live and be able to work in one of the locations listed.
  • Have not been unsuccessful at assessment for the 2023 Summer Intake.
  • Hold or be predicted to achieve at least a 2:2, in a subject other than social work. For full details you can take our eligibility checker.
  • Have the right to remain and work in the UK (including access to public funds) for the entire duration of the programme.
  • Hold at least a grade C GCSE in Maths (or equivalent level 2 qualification).
  • Hold at least a grade C GCSE in English or English Language (not English Literature).
  • Have a valid UK driving license.

Will I be delayed in starting the programme?

Once you have completed the Autumn Institute you will join an existing unit of trainees as part of the 2023 programme.

The programme timeframes for the Autumn Intake are as follows:

  • 18 September – 13 October 2023: Attend training online at the Autumn Institute, concluding with two days in-person training at Middlesex University on 12 and 13 October.
  • 16 October 2023: begin placement in person at your organisation.
  • End of September 2024: Complete Year One and become a newly qualified social worker. Then start Year Two in employment and undertake Master’s and Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE).
  • End of October 2025: Graduate with Master’s in social work.