Future Climate Innovators summer school

Shape a sustainable future

Start date: 18 August 2024
Duration: 2 weeks
Time commitment: Full time
Age: 16-18 years old
Location: Oxford
Cost: £9,900

As the world grapples with an evolving landscape of climate change challenges, we are launching a bold new youth initiative.

For the first time, we are inviting change-makers aged 16-18 to participate in an inspiring and unique summer school programme led by world class experts.

This isn’t just about learning; it’s a rallying cry for action. Alongside a global cohort, take on the role of an innovator, confront the pressing climate issues head-on, and shape a sustainable future.

Get ready for a transformative experience where you can truly make a lasting impact.

Climate change is the greatest threat to humanity.
There has never been a more urgent time to inspire and mobilise the next generation of leaders, change makers and innovators.

Soumitra Dutta

Peter Moores Dean and Professor of Management

Collaboration, innovation, transformation

Engage in stimulating discussions, explore innovative solutions, and collaborate with peers from across the globe. Together, you’ll forge a united front in the battle against climate change.

Your journey begins here

You’ll unravel the complexities of climate change, harness your creativity for problem-solving and develop actionable strategies for local, national and global impact.

Embrace this opportunity to be a part of a community committed to making a sustainable world. Your ideas matter, and this platform is where they can become impactful solutions.

Five key themes

Running throughout the programme, each theme tackles a significant climate challenge facing the world:

air pollution
extreme weather events
water scarcity
food scarcity
biodiversity

Application process

Applications will take place in three steps. Begin step one by using the link to the application form on this page.

Step one - application form

Before you start, please note it is not possible to save your progress and return to it later.

You will be asked to complete three pieces of writing of approximately 300 words each. The questions are:

Why would you like to attend the summer school?
What skills would you like to develop by being on the summer school?
What do you think you can bring to the summer school?

You will also need to provide information about your school and the name and contact details of a teacher who can provide a reference for you.

Step two - online video interview

Once you have filled in the online form you will be sent an email inviting you to do an online video interview, using a platform called Kira Talent. Follow the instructions in the email and on the platform.

The video interviews can be done in your own time as they are recorded, not live, and they should only take about 20-30 minutes to complete. You will have one week from the date you receive your invitation email.

Step three - our decision

We operate a rolling admissions process so will aim to evaluate your application and interview videos as soon as possible. Please only get in touch if it has been more than two weeks since completing your video interview. If you are successful, you must accept your offer by paying a deposit to secure your place.

Attendance criteria

Age

This programme is exclusively for young people aged 16-18. To attend the programme, you must be a minimum of 16 and a maximum of 18 years and 11 months old on 1 August 2024.

English language

In order to benefit from the programme fully, you should have a level of English of at least a B2 - upper intermediate level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Language. You can ask your English teacher if you're not sure.

Our supporters

This unique programme has been created following the generous support of Burjeel Holdings, whose gift enabled the 2023 Global Climate Change Challenge competition for young people and teachers.

Terms and conditions

Before applying, please read the full programme terms and conditions.

Webinar

Join us for an informative webinar including a Q&A session with Programme Director Richard Waters on Friday, 26 April.

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact us at climatesummerschool@sbs.ox.ac.uk

Outline

The Future Climate Innovators Summer School offers an experience like no other. Your time with us includes:

An intensive climate change curriculum

A rigorous academic curriculum which also has an emphasis on real-world impact and innovation.

Experience of the Oxford tradition

Experience a taste of life at one of the world’s most respected universities, experiencing its rich academic heritage and vibrant campus life.

Networking and collaboration at its core

Connect with a diverse group of peers from across the globe and leave with a network of change-makers.

Personal growth beyond academics

The programme goes beyond academic learning. From cultural events to sports, you'll enhance your social skills and enjoy a well-rounded experience.

Week one

This week lays the groundwork for understanding complex issues like air pollution, extreme weather and food security and sets the stage for innovative thinking and solution development.

Prepare to delve into global environmental challenges and start your journey towards impactful solutions.

Week two

In the second week you'll apply your foundational understanding of environmental challenges to creating solutions.

It'll focus on applying your knowledge, enhancing entrepreneurial skills and developing impactful business proposals. You’ll pitch your ideas, combining your learning to demonstrate how innovative concepts can address real-world climate challenges.

It is your voice which needs to be raised... without your voices, we rest our understanding too much on the past. This needs to change.

Juliane Reinecke

Professor of Management Studies and Summer School Programme Sponsor

Learning outcomes

Our four learning outcomes will ensure you set yourself up as a future climate innovator.

Practical application of theoretical knowledge
Skill development for future innovators
In-depth understanding of climate challenges
Preparation for advanced studies and careers

Where you'll stay

As a participant in the programme, you will have the unique opportunity to experience life at St John’s College - one of the historic colleges of the University of Oxford.

You’ll be part of a vibrant community of students from around the world, immersed in centuries of academic tradition. The College is not just a place to sleep, it’s an integral part of your educational journey.

Faculty

We pride ourself on bringing together a diverse array of speakers who are at the forefront of climate change research and action.

The programme will feature thought leaders, industry experts and pioneering academics.

Juliane Reinecke

Professor of Management Studies

Diana Mangalagiu

Associate Fellow
Laurence Cranmer

Associate Fellow
Radhika Khosla

Associate Professor, Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment
Sam Hampton

Senior Researcher, Environmental Change Institute