Applications for Think Ahead now open!

As reported by the Independent on Sunday this weekend, applications to join our first cohort in 2016 have now opened. Today, Think Ahead is asking you to consider if you’re remarkable enough to take a fast-track route into one of the country’s most rewarding and challenging professions.

Over the coming months we’ll be recruiting exceptional people who have the potential to be excellent mental health social workers, and go on to become leaders in their fields. Professor Dame Carol Black, Principal of Newnham College Cambridge and Think Ahead’s Chair, said: “We are looking forward to selecting our first group of remarkable people, and giving them the chance to shape the future of mental health services.”

Our programme offers you a unique opportunity to make a real difference to people with mental health problems, whilst developing your expertise and leadership skills. Graduates and final-year students from any university are encouraged to apply, providing they meet our eligibility criteria.

We are expecting strong competition for the 80 to 100 places on offer in our first cohort. More than 2,500 people have expressed their interest the programme, and Dame Carol added: “I’m thrilled that so many students and graduates have pre-registered to apply.”

To be successful, you’ll need to demonstrate that you can excel in a demanding role that requires a range of attributes – including leadership, adaptability, good judgement, and the ability to understand and inspire people.

You can see details of our selection process, and what we are looking for, on our How to apply page. The first step is to apply online. If your application is progressed, the next stages include an online test and an assessment centre.

Are you ready to apply your mind to mental health? If you’re considering applying, you can start by learning more about the programme.