Our recent Thesis Boot Camp at the beginning of July was enjoyed by around 50 PhD researchers gathering in the Windsor Building for a fully catered, focused weekend of writing. Across the three days, participants collectively wrote over 370,000 words, making significant progress on their theses while enjoying the rare chance to write without distractions.
To keep motivation high, we handed out squishy Lego bricks each time participants hit a writing milestone, and it was rewarding to silently clap as people came to collect the bricks and write their names on our word count wall. Beyond the writing, many valued the chance to network with peers over meals, sharing tips and encouragement. Some researchers have even organised future campus writing days, keen to maintain the momentum and accountability they found during the boot camp.
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with everyone who completed the survey saying they would recommend the experience to their peers. All reported achieving their writing goals or adapting their plans to a new, clearer goal by the end of the weekend. Many highlighted the dedicated time, comfortable space, and catered meals as key reasons they were able to focus, make progress, and feel less isolated in the thesis journey.
We’re delighted this weekend made such a difference.
Dr Laura Christie
Doctoral School Training and Development Manager