Applied Learning Pathways

Agile thinking, collaboration and a readiness to adapt are at the heart of every Sprint, encouraging independence, reflection and purposeful learning throughout the programme.

Choosing your course

Students choose one course per Sprint from a selection of seven carefully designed options across STEM, Business, and English Language. These form the academic core of the week, taking place from 09:00 to 12:30 on Mondays*, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays (*slightly adjusted on the first Monday of each Sprint). Each course is closely connected to the Sprint’s central theme, creating a cohesive and immersive academic experience.

Team Challenges

Within each course, students work through a sequence of five team-based challenges broken down into six learning phases. These activities are designed to develop creativity, analytical thinking and strategic problem-solving. Experienced tutors guide students throughout, providing individual support, thoughtful feedback and opportunities for reflection. Small teams of three or four ensure meaningful collaboration and effective peer learning, with English proficiency considered for those studying English for Global Leaders.

Experiences and Real-World Connections

Beyond the classroom, each Sprint includes two off-site experiences: a university experience and a business HQ experience. These experiences offer insight into academic study and professional life through talks, workshops and opportunities to meet experts in the field, helping students connect their learning to real-world contexts and consider future pathways with confidence.

Hackathon Day

Every Sprint concludes with a Hackathon Day, in which students bring their ideas to life through teamwork, innovation and presentation. Guest speakers and mentors provide inspiration and feedback, creating an energising finale that celebrates creativity, collaboration and progress.

By the end of a Sprint, students will have:

• Completed five team-based challenges grounded in real-world contexts and centred around a unifying theme
• Developed and applied critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills
• Strengthened leadership, collaboration, and communication through agile group work
• Received personalised guidance and feedback from experienced tutors
• Engaged in immersive academic and professional experiences, including visits to universities and businesses
• Participated in a full-day Hackathon, presenting innovative solutions to pressing real-world problems before industry experts
• Explored future academic and career pathways through hands-on projects and reflective activities
• Inspired, challenged, and engaged in meaningful inquiry into contemporary issues