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Programme Overview Academic Pathway Engineering, Design and Technology

Engineering, Design and Technology

Engineering, Design & Technology enables students to think, create and problem‑solve through the lens of an engineer. Knowledge is acquired through engagement with ambitious questions about how engineered systems work, using hands‑on experiments, material testing and digital simulations to investigate real‑world challenges.

Pathway: STEM

Minimum English level: B2 

Engineering, Design & Technology

Location

Tonbridge School, Kent, England

Dates

COURSE 1

5 July - 18 July 2027


COURSE 2

19 July - 1 August 2027

Students

Aged 12-17 years

Fees

£5400 for 2-week residential course

About the course

Students experience the full design cycle, from identifying problems and generating ideas to prototyping and testing solutions. The programme places strong emphasis on collaborative project work, critical thinking, and the practical application of engineering principles. Using digital tools, physical modelling, and sustainable design practices, students learn to transform ideas into tangible outcomes.

Learning is structured around a six-phase Challenge that mirrors authentic engineering practice. This incorporates exploration of how physical forces behave as well as modelling and prototyping of solutions, and testing, evaluating and defending final designs. Students will explore how bridges support load, how rockets achieve stable flight and how design decisions influence strength, efficiency and performance. Throughout the programme, tutors guide learners in a structured cycle of inquiry, experimentation and iteration.

This process encourages curiosity, teamwork and evidence‑based reasoning as students refine ideas through practical testing and reflection. The experience enables students to gain understanding of engineering as a tool for creativity, innovation and purposeful engagement with the world of design and technology.

Download example challenge

Course Aims

IMPACT Learning Model is our bespoke framework that defines the goals of education, methods, and outcomes students are expected to achieve. Powered by Impact’s Agile, Future-Ready Learning Model, students will:

Build a new set of skills

The programme cultivates resilience, teamwork, creativity, and analytical thinking – transferable skills that prepare learners for future studies in physics, engineering, design, and technology.

Improve problem solving skills

Students leave with a deeper appreciation of how real engineers investigate problems, test solutions, and use innovation to shape the world around them.

Build confidence to present and communicate with impact

Presentation skills and confidence grow, with final competitions and engineering defences providing a platform to showcase understanding of design trade offs and performance outcomes.

Nurture the inner voice

Students strengthen their ability to communicate engineering concepts through precise vocabulary, structured explanations and well supported arguments.

See the bigger picture

Students leave with a deeper appreciation of how real engineers investigate problems, test solutions, and use innovation to shape the world around them.

Course Overview

This course is designed to immerse students in a series of structured academic and practical challenges. Each course blends rigorous study with collaborative, team-based projects, encouraging students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and develop leadership skills.

Business experience

Business HQ and university experience with exclusive access to top institutions

Professional networking

Industry networking with professionals and changemakers

Pioneering speakers

Guest speaker talks from pioneers in their fields

Various workshops

Personal Development across academic, personal, and leadership development

Daily challenges

Pitching solutions to real-world problems

Range of activities

IMPACT Skills activities such as flight school, football, art and tennis

Purposeful leadership

Motivational speakers to inspire purposeful leadership

Through guided mentorship, reflective practice, and real-world application, our courses provide a dynamic environment in which students can explore ideas, build confidence, and make tangible progress in their personal and intellectual development.

 

Mentoring & Reflection

Experience real-world innovation and thought leadership while studying.

Developed by Tonbridge School’s staff, each challenge provides personalised mentorship, constructive peer feedback, and reflective coaching, equipping students to develop with confidence and purpose.

Beyond the Classroom

Make unforgettable memories inside and outside the classroom.

From sports and creative workshops to team challenges, cultural excursions, and social events, there’s always something to enjoy. Evenings and weekends offer a balance of relaxation and adventure, giving students the chance to connect and create lasting memories within a vibrant community.

More in Programme Overview

  • Programme Overview
  • Academic Pathway
  • Personal Development
  • IMPACT Skills
  • Activities & Excursions
  • Boarding Life
  • History
  • Facilities
  • Safeguarding & Student Wellbeing
  • Dates & Fees 2027
  • FAQs
  • Book Now
  • Tonbridge School
    High Street
    Tonbridge, Kent
    TN9 1JP
    England 

    impact@tonbridgesummerprogramme.org 01732 900650

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