Empowering tomorrow’s diplomats

Embark on a transformative journey through the intricate world of global diplomacy with our two-week International Relations course. Throughout this immersive experience, you will explore the fundamental pillars of International Relations, delving into the pivotal roles of organisations like the United Nations and NATO, and investigating further the political challenges inherent in our increasingly globalised society, gaining profound insights into our rapidly evolving world.

Engage in through-provoking discussions with academics and professionals working in the field, and participate in our Model UN Time To Shine project, where you will represent nations in conflict resolution simulations and hone your negotiation and diplomatic skills. Prepare to become a global citizen, ready to address the world’s complexities head on, and join us in Oxford where the future of international relations begins with you!

At a Glance

  • Price: £5,995
  • Ages: 16-17
  • English Level: B1+ (Intermediate and above)
  • Course Length: 2 weeks
  • Starting Dates: 30th June, 14th July & 28th July 2024
  • Maximum Class Size: 15
  • Language Support: Included
  • Academic Content: 25 Hours Per Week
  • Location: University of Oxford
Oxford College

What’s Included

✔ 25 hours of subject-specific academic content per week with an experienced subject tutor, delivered through interactive seminars and hands-on practical workshops

✔ Opportunities to apply and share this knowledge with your peers through dynamic group projects, culminating in the end-of-the-week Time to Shine Ceremony

✔ An action-packed programme of guest speakers and industry experiences each week designed to give you first-hand insight into your chosen field

✔ Dedicated academic coaching sessions designed to support you in applying for a UK university, whether that’s writing a personal statement or preparing for a presentation

✔ Numerous opportunities throughout your academic program to develop your English language skills, whether that’s building vocabulary to talk about your subject, or developing your speaking skills to present your Time To Shine project

 

Our approach to your learning

Subject + skills + language = success

At the core of our student-centered academic approach is a commitment to nurturing not just your subject knowledge, but also your communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills through interactive lectures, dynamic seminars, and hands-on practical workshops.

We also emphasise the development of your public speaking and teamwork through group work and our Time to Shine projects. And finally, our programme of engaging guest speakers and industry experiences brings real-world relevance to your learning. This immersive learning journey will empower you with the skills you need for success in the 21st century.

Course Objectives

Over the course of this two-week programme, you will:

  • Gain an overview of the major themes of International Relations, including the role of the United Nations & NATO
  • Analyse the political and environmental challenges presented by an increasingly globalised and interconnected world
  • Interact with guest speakers from leading academics in the field of International Relations
  • Take part in an exciting Model UN Time To Shine project, in which you will represent a party engaged in conflict resolution discussions
  • Develop and apply core 21st-century skills through fun and engaging lessons, including critical thinking, communication, creativity and collaboration

Time to Shine

Over the two-week programme, you will participate in two Time To Shine Projects.

Week One: Mock United Nations (UN) Assembly

In the first week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will participate in a Mock United Nations (UN) Assembly. They will be assigned roles as delegates representing different countries and international organisations. Students will research global issues, draft resolutions, and engage in diplomatic negotiations to address pressing global challenges. This simulation mirrors the proceedings of the United Nations, providing students with practical insights into international diplomacy, negotiation, and the complexities of global governance.

Week Two: Crisis Simulation and Conflict Resolution

In the second week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will participate in a Crisis Simulation and Conflict Resolution exercise. They will be presented with a complex international crisis scenario and assigned roles as diplomats, negotiators, and crisis managers. Students will work collaboratively to analyze the crisis, negotiate solutions, and develop strategies for conflict resolution. This project enhances students’ crisis management skills, decision-making abilities, and their understanding of conflict resolution processes in the context of international relations.

Time to Shine

Develop your public speaking skills. Share your passion. Inspire your classmates.

Today, giving great presentations are a vital skill for achieving academic and professional success. Our programmes reflect this by having the ‘art of presenting’ at the heart of their content, and allow you to discover new confidence when using English in public situations.

It’s more than just a chance to enhance your public speaking skills, though; it’s an opportunity for you to share your passion and subject knowledge with your fellow classmates. Through your presentations, you will become sources of inspiration, and encourage others to delve deeper into your subject.

Industry Experience

Industry Experience 

Dive deeper into your field beyond the classroom

Enhance your academic foundation with our comprehensive Industry Experience sessions. These sessions are both on-site, in which you will participate in workshops that are led by an industry professional and blend practical engagement with immersive learning, and off-site, in which students engage in excursions that complement your course content and will broaden your horizons. 

Students participate in academic excursions that depend on their understanding of diplomatic strategies and international policies. Engaging in dynamic group discussions and  roleplaying scenarios, SBC believes in mixing theoretical knowledge with real, practical experiences. In previous Industry Experiences, students visited Blenheim Palace and participated in a journalism workshop with a respected news editor from an established newspaper.

Guest Speakers

Guest Speakers

Leaders of today inspiring the Leaders of tomorrow

Every Wednesday morning, students can interact with leading professionals and academics. These sessions offer insightful discussions, expert views, and Q&A sessions that promote intellectual growth.

On the International Relations course, you will have the opportunity to engage with diplomatic professionals. Unravelling the complex ties between nations, last summer, students interacted with experts specialising in areas such as conflict resolution and global economic policy. These professionals delved into their unique areas of expertise, providing students with diverse perspectives on global affairs and contemporary challenges.

Academic Coaching

Academic Coaching

Stand out and shine

Whether you’re looking to apply for a UK university or just keen to make sure your university application is as strong as possible, our academic coaching sessions aim to ensure you stand apart from your peers. These workshops will not just focus on writing personal statements and preparing for university, but also help you to develop your public speaking skills, an integral skill for university courses.

Academic Sample

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SBC has allowed me to see the world through a whole different lens. I heard diverse opinions and stories from other students, which enabled me to not only be a good listener, but understand them as if I was in their shoes. These skills are indispensable for both my future career and my life.

Tiffany, Student, Indonesia

Apply Today

Be part of the solutions in our interconnected world. To begin the summer of a lifetime simply fill out our enquiry form below and one of our expert admissions team will be in touch.