Build Your Skills, Broaden Your Research: Training for PGRs

PGRs Come Together for a Motivating Writing Retreat 

Dr Peter Hart, Lecturer in Inclusion, Childhood and Youth in the School of Education at University of Leeds and White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership (WRDTP) Pathway Director, recently hosted a day-long writing retreat for postgraduate researchers (PGRs). The event brought together 20 PGRs from the seven WRDTP partner universities, creating a supportive, focused space to develop their academic writing and refine their work alongside peers. 

Importantly for Leeds researchers, WRDTP training opportunities like this are open to all PGRs -not just those funded by the WRDTP. In fact, this retreat included primarily non-WRDTP funded researchers, demonstrating how accessible these sessions are to the wider postgraduate community. 

Participants worked on a wide range of writing tasks, from conference abstracts and journal articles to thesis chapters, benefiting from protected time away from everyday distractions. 

Feedback from attendees highlighted the impact of both the environment and the sense of community. One PGR reflected, “I enjoyed a sense of community and the encouraging, structured and motivational side of the retreat. It makes the writing task easier and less daunting.”  Others emphasised the value of stepping away from their usual workspace: “It was really useful to have some focused writing time in a nice setting and away from my desk,” and “It was a very motivating, encouraging, and inspiring experience.” 

As one participant noted, 

This event gave me structured, dedicated and focused time to work on my PhD. I enjoyed working alongside and meeting other people.

The opportunity to connect with other researchers was a key takeaway.  The retreat environment also helped spark creativity, with another attendee adding, “The location was well thought out because it inspired my writing style.” 

Events like this highlight WRDTP’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative research culture across partner institutions - and to supporting the development of all PGRs, regardless of funding. 

If you’re a University of Leeds PGR looking for dedicated time, motivation, and a supportive peer network, WRDTP training opportunities are open to you. 

Find out more about WRDTP opportunities and ESRC-funded studentships at the University of Leeds.