WINTER 2023 RESIDENTIAL WRITING RETREAT
WINTER RESIDENTIAL WRITING RETREAT FOR DOCTORAL RESEARCHERS
18th – 20th December 2023
VENUE: Charney Manor, Charney Bassett, Wantage, Oxon, OX12 0EJ
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 27th November, 5pm.
What does a writing retreat involve?
The structured writing retreats are designed to provide the opportunities to write and work on outputs, in an optimal environment. The writing model is based on the structured-writing retreat format (Murray and Newton, 2009). The aim of the programme is very much to provide and enforce research/writing time, in a relaxed, supportive, and peaceful group environment. Desks are well spaced out, while writing together, during prescribed timeslots.
While it is a non-surveillance environment with regards to what you do, there are some rules. The first is that you are sitting down and ready to write at the start of each session. The second is that mobile phones are put away out of sight (and sound), and you DO NOT check email or use the internet during the writing sessions (we would recommend no Internet for complete immersion). Research has shown that the retreats are most productive if relevant article searching and downloading has been done in advance. The final rule is that research work/writing is carried out in silence (or with headphones that do not produce sound that could disturb other writers).
This writing retreat will be run by Dr Alison Eardley and Dr Tina Cartwright who are both based in the School of Social Sciences and are trained writing retreat facilitators. The retreats are designed to provide a restful and relaxing space to write, meet other PhD researchers and talk about research and life outside PhDs. We all write together in a dedicated room during specific timed sessions, and we also take breaks at specific times. Part of the programme will involve (optional) pre-lunch walks (bring waterproofs and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy in case of rain), and (optional) yoga sessions at the end of the writing day (further information will be sent out about this at a later date). Yoga is led by Tina, who is a qualified yoga instructor.
There is a socket under the desk for each participant (for laptops) and extensions for students to spread out.
NOTE ON COVID-19
The writing room is large and airy and all attendees will have space between them while writing.
While face masks are no longer a government requirement, you are very welcome to wear one if you would like to.
Charney Manor
Charney Manor is an idyllic and peaceful retreat set in the Oxfordshire countryside. Some parts of the manor house date back to the thirteenth century, and it is regarded as a haven of tranquility, which people visit for reflection, renewal and relaxation. It is surrounded by 3 acres of beautiful grounds that include mature trees, horse paddock, a secret garden, a fruit orchard and tranquil seating areas, which all guests are welcome to explore and enjoy. There are also lovely walks through the old village and along the meandering River Ock. The Manor is situated next to St Peters Church, part of the church dates to the 12th Century. You will also have your private room to retire to.
You can see plenty of information about the venue on the website: https://www.charneymanor.com/about-the-manor/
Location
Trains run regularly from London Paddington to Didcot. Charney Manor is only accessible by taxi from Didcot .
Charney Manor is only accessible by taxi from Didcot. They have a preferred supplier who gives Charney’s guests special rates, please contact the office for these details. We will try to taxi share.
Retreat places are funded but attendees will need to claim back travel costs from the Graduate School after the Retreat (there is free parking onsite for anyone wishing to drive). Travel expenses cover your journey from London to the venue.
Allocation of Places
There is an application process. There are 12 places available. We will have a waiting list, in case of last minute cancellations. Whatever the stage of your PhD, please do feel free to apply.
Priority will be given to people who feel that the retreat will impact positively on their PhD writing and on their wellbeing, so please do consider applying, whatever the stage of your research project.
If there are more applicants than places, the application form will help the Graduate School to allocate places. The questions they will focus on will be (in order of importance):
- a) How the retreat will benefit your wellbeing
b) What piece of PhD writing you want to work on and why
c) How the opportunity will benefit your PhD journey.
Please submit your application by: 5pm on TBA.
APPLICATION FORM LINK
Winter Retreat Timetable
Day 1: Monday 18 December 2023
10.00am arrive, set up, grab a drink, sitting down ready to start
10.20am – Start: Introductions and Writing session 1
11.45pm – Break
12.00pm – Writing session 2
1.00 pm – Lunch
2.00pm – Writing session 3
3.30pm – Break
4.00pm – 5.30pm Writing session 4
5.45-6.45pm – Optional yoga
7pm – Dinner
Day 2: Tuesday 19 December 2023
7.30-8.15am – Breakfast (arrive when you choose but make sure you are at your desk ready to write at 8.30am)
8.30am – Writing session 1
10.15am – Break
10.45am – Writing session 2
12pm – Walk (optional)
1pm – Lunch
2pm – Writing session 3
3.30pm – tea break
4.00pm – 5.30pm Writing session 4
5.45pm – Optional Yoga
7pm Dinner
Day 3: Wednesday 20 December 2023
7.30-8.15am – Breakfast
8.30am – Writing session 1
10.15am – Break
10.45am – Writing session 2
12pm – Optional Walk
1pm – Lunch
2pm – Writing session 3
3.30pm – End of retreat roundup
4pm – End of retreat/taxis to the station