Applications for the next Resident Academy are now closed.

  • The Resident Academy

    Resident Academy boot camp

    When: 9-10 March 2024

    Where: Holiday Inn, Eight Ash Green

The free Resident Academy boot camp is an opportunity for 20 residents to join together, learn how Eastlight works and discover how you can make a difference for you, your family, your neighbours and the wider community.

Over the course of a weekend, we will provide everything you need – from the venue and accommodation to the learning tools and guest speakers – to be inspired and informed to decide the best next step for you. That could be:

  • Applying for paid roles such as our resident-led Customer Influence Committee
  • Exploring new opportunities to change how Eastlight works and provides services in areas that you are passionate about
  • Making a difference in your community through our volunteer All In Community Alliances or Eastlight Residents Groups.

If you have a desire to learn and a passion to make a difference, then the Resident Academy is for you. Applications for the next Resident Academy are now closed.

If you'd like to get involved with Eastlight, please get in touch.

"You wouldn't know half of what's going on unless you attend something like this."

Take a look at what goes on at The Resident Academy and hear from recent graduates what they think about the programme.

"I hope to use my expertise to provide our residents with an improved standard of life."

- Mick Ryan, Resident Academy Graduate turned Customer Influence Committee member.

The Resident Academy Online

Our Resident Academy Online is a series of fascinating courses aimed at giving you the information you need to shape Eastlight’s future. You can watch the first video, covering the origins of social housing in the UK, here.

07:06 YouTube

Interested in watching more?

Click the series below to enter the Resident Academy Online. 

Q&A

Q: Why is Eastlight launching the Resident Academy?

A: As the biggest resident-led housing association in the country, we recognise that you know better than anyone what you need to be safe and happy in your home and your community.

We believe we will be at our best if you have the power to hold us to account, to improve the services you receive and to make a difference in your community.

Your new Resident Academy will equip you to do that by providing the training, tools and support you need to make a difference for you, your family, your neighbours and the wider community.

Q: What will I learn at the Resident Academy?

A: Over the weekend, you will:

  • Learn from inspiring speakers: Hear from the best about why social housing was created, how it came about and the world we live in today.
  • Discover how Eastlight works: Take a peek under Eastlight’s hood and find out what we do and how we work.
  • Take on issues you’re passionate about: From your learning and your passions, explore how you want to get involved in the work we do at Eastlight.
  • Learn new skills: From budgeting and problem solving to looking into the concept of power, you'll boost your own skills with a variety of activities.
Q: Is this for me? Do I need any specific qualifications or skills for the Resident Academy?

A: No qualifications are required. All you need to apply for the Resident Academy is a desire to learn and a passion to make a difference.

Q: There are barriers, such as accessibility or childcare, which could prevent me from taking part. Can you help?

A: We want to make the Resident Academy as accessible as we can.

If there are potential barriers but you are still interested in taking part, please complete the application form above and select 'Yes' on the question about accessibility. We will then get in touch to discuss your needs.

Q: Is accommodation provided at the Resident Academy?

A: We will provide hotel accommodation and meals to any participant who would like it. However, we recognise that personal responsibilities such as childcare means this may not be possible for everyone, so the course has been arranged to allow participants to just join for the days between 9.30am and 5.30pm if they wish.

Q: I’ve had a poor experience with Eastlight. Why should I join the Resident Academy?

A: We recognise that the best way to provide great homes and services is to listen to and work with residents to ensure we meet your needs.

The Resident Academy is your opportunity to work with us to try and ensure others have better experiences with us in the future.

Q: What happens once I’ve completed the Resident Academy?

A: We want to work with you to create meaningful opportunities to make a difference for Eastlight residents that are the right fit for you.

These include:

  • Applying for paid roles, such as our Board or our resident-led Customer Influence Committee.
  • Exploring new opportunities to change how Eastlight works and provides services in areas that you are passionate about.
  • Making a difference in your community through our volunteer All In Community Alliances or Eastlight Residents Groups.

Apply for the Resident Academy

Applications close Tuesday, 20 February 2024.