Students aged 12 - 16
Headington Oxford Summer School
Future Global Leaders
Future Global Leaders is a two-week programme for students who want to understand power, politics and influence in an international context. You’ll study how governments work, how global organisations respond to crises, and how leaders build trust and authority. Alongside this, you’ll develop practical skills in debate, negotiation and decision-making, preparing you to speak with clarity and lead with confidence. The course is about more than theory: it gives you the chance to test ideas, work with others, and start shaping the perspective of a future leader.
Creating Leaders of Tomorrow
Our two-week Future Global Leaders course is tailored for young visionaries who aspire to influence the world through diplomacy, policy-making, and international cooperation. This programme offers an immersive experience in global affairs, where you will explore the challenges and opportunities of leadership in a diverse and interconnected world.
The course emphasises the development of a global mindset. You will delve into topics such as international relations, global economics, and human rights, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the forces that shape our world. Through engaging debates, model United Nations sessions, and scenario-based simulations, you will learn to think critically about global issues and develop solutions that can drive positive change.
Cultural understanding and empathy are key components of this course. You will interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, gaining insights into different cultures and perspectives that will broaden your worldview. This cross-cultural collaboration is essential for developing the diplomatic and communication skills needed to lead in a Globalised society.
In addition to academic learning, the course includes leadership workshops where you will hone your ability to inspire, influence, and guide others. You will explore different leadership styles and strategies, learning how to adapt your approach to different contexts and challenges.
By the end of the programme, you will have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to step into leadership roles on the global stage. Join us at SBC this summer, and start your journey toward becoming a leader who can make a lasting impact in our increasingly interconnected world.
Future Global Leaders
At a Glance
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Price
£4,595
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Ages
12-16
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English Level
B1+ (Intermediate and above)
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Duration
2 weeks
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Maximum Class Size
15
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Academic Content
15 Hours of Lessons per Week
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Starting Dates
6th July & 20th July 2026
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Language Support
Included
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Location
Headington School, Oxford
Download The Academic Overview
Get a detailed insight into our Future Global Leaders programme, designed to inspire and challenge students in a dynamic learning environment.
Download now to explore how Future Global Leaders equips students with the knowledge and experience to excel.
Future Global Leaders
What's Included?
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15 Hours of Academic Content Per Week
15 hours of subject-specific academic content per week with an experienced subject tutor, delivered through interactive and hands-on lessons.
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Time To Shine Projects
Opportunities to apply and share this knowledge through dynamic ‘Time To Shine’ group projects, culminating in an end-of-the-week ceremony in which you can present your innovative ideas to your peers.
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Excursions
Embark on excursions designed to ignite adventure and curiosity. Showcasing the best of UK culture that will broaden their horizons and create lasting memories including; Thorpe Park, London and Oxford.
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Social Programme
Students will immerse themselves in exciting multi-activities, including football, basketball, tennis, arts and crafts, and specialist activities like off-site bowling, talent shows, capture the flag and secret cinema, exploring their passions and building lasting friendships.
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Develop English Language Skills
Numerous opportunities throughout your academic programme 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.
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End of Course Report and Certificate
At the end of every Summer Boarding Courses programme, each student receives a personalised end-of-course report alongside a certificate of achievement. These documents mark more than attendance — they reflect the progress you’ve made, the skills you’ve developed, and the contributions you’ve brought to your classes and projects. The report provides thoughtful feedback from your tutors, highlighting both your strengths and areas to keep building on, while the certificate stands as a formal recognition of your commitment and success. Together, they serve as lasting evidence of your growth and as valuable additions to future academic applications.
Course Objectives
Welcome to Future Global Leaders, a dynamic programme designed for students aged 13-16 who are passionate about making a difference in the world. At Headington School, we recognise the importance of developing leadership skills and global awareness in today’s interconnected society. This course provides a foundation in international relations, leadership, and social impact, preparing you to become a thoughtful and effective leader on the global stage. Whether you’re interested in politics, diplomacy, or social entrepreneurship, Future Global Leaders will equip you with the tools to lead with purpose and vision.
Course Modules
Module 1: Politics and Governance
This module introduces you to the foundations of political systems and the ways in which societies are governed. You’ll study how parliaments, presidents, and prime ministers make decisions, and how those decisions impact people’s lives. Using real-world case studies, you’ll analyse the structures of government, compare political ideologies, and debate the effectiveness of different approaches to leadership. By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of how power works and how individuals can influence political change.
Module 2: International Relations
Here you’ll step into the world of diplomacy and global affairs. The module examines how nations work together, where they clash, and why cooperation is often the hardest but most important path. You’ll look at current issues such as climate change, security, and migration, while also exploring the role of organisations like the UN and NATO. Activities include analysing treaties, simulating negotiations, and evaluating how leaders respond when global crises unfold. It’s a chance to see how interconnected the world really is, and how decisions made in one place ripple across the globe.
Module 3: Leadership in Practice
Leadership isn’t just about theory, it’s about what you do when people are looking to you for direction. This module places you in practical scenarios where you’ll need to guide others, communicate clearly, and make decisions under pressure. Through group challenges, debates, and public speaking exercises, you’ll discover different styles of leadership and reflect on your own strengths. The goal is to help you step into leadership roles with confidence, empathy, and the ability to bring people together around a common purpose.
Key Learning Outcomes
Understanding Global Systems
Build a grounding in politics and international relations by studying how nations, organisations, and communities interact. You’ll learn to recognise the structures that shape global decision-making and how they affect everyday lives.
Developing Leadership Skills
Explore different models of leadership and practise them in simulations and group challenges. You’ll gain experience in guiding discussions, making decisions under pressure, and learning how leaders inspire trust and cooperation.
Practising Debate and Diplomacy
Learn how to present arguments with clarity and respond to opposing views. Through structured debates and model negotiations, you’ll develop diplomacy skills that help you find common ground while standing firm on your ideas.
Applying Knowledge to Real Issues
Take on case studies that reflect today’s global challenges, from climate policy to international conflict. You’ll connect theory with practice, sharpening your ability to propose realistic solutions and to think like a future changemaker.
Master Public Speaking & Presenting Time to Shine
Time to Shine is your platform each week to step forward and show what you can do. It’s where ideas turn into performances, experiments or displays, and where you learn to speak with clarity and confidence. Every showcase is a chance to practise presenting like a scientist, entrepreneur, or artist of the future, while celebrating how far you’ve come in just a few days.
Through Time to Shine, you’ll practise speaking clearly and confidently in front of an audience. Presenting your project helps you structure ideas, explain them in your own words and build the confidence to share them with others. These are the first steps in mastering public speaking, a skill that will support you far beyond the classroom.
Big Solutions Challenge
Take on the world’s toughest problems. Health, climate, peace, technology. Work with your team to imagine bold answers, then present them in a showcase of campaigns, inventions and performances.
The Global Charter
Gather with your team to write the first principles of a new charter for humanity. Decide on the three rules that will guide the future: climate, peace, cooperation. Then take the stage together, each reading a section in a formal announcement of your charter to the world.
Future Oxford Expo
Enter the Expo. Stands are built, pitches are prepared, the stage is set. Become the innovator who presents their work to an international crowd.
The Visionary Speech
Stand at the podium as a leader with a vision for the future. Deliver a speech that offers solutions to a pressing political or social issue, speaking as if to an international conference.
Benefits
Mastering Public Speaking
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Building Confidence
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Celebrating Progress
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Creative Expression
Our Approach to Your Learning
At Headington School, our approach to learning in the Future Global Leaders programme is designed to inspire you to think globally and act locally. We combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, helping you develop the skills and understanding needed to lead in a rapidly changing world. Our lessons are interactive and collaborative, encouraging you to engage with global issues, work in teams, and develop your own leadership style. With the guidance of our experienced teachers, you’ll build the confidence and competence to take on leadership roles in your school, community, and beyond, preparing you to be a responsible and impactful global citizen.
I have made so many friends here
I would describe my experience with SBC as being really amazing because I have made so many friends here and I have just had an amazing time over all!
Julia, Headington Oxford, Student
Future Global Leaders
Dates & Prices
Future Global Leaders FAQs
Do I need any prior knowledge of politics or international relations?
No. The programme is designed for curious students at all levels. We introduce key ideas step by step, so you can join in whether it’s your first time studying these subjects or you already have an interest.
What resources will I need during the course?
You’ll need a notebook, pens, and access to a laptop or tablet for research and group projects. All other materials will be provided by us.
How much of the learning is practical?
A large part of the course is activity-based. You’ll take part in debates, model negotiations and leadership challenges that put theory into practice and build your confidence in real situations.
What skills will I take away from Future Global Leaders?
You’ll strengthen your ability to analyse global issues, argue with clarity, and work effectively in a team. You’ll also gain confidence in public speaking and leadership, skills that are valuable well beyond the classroom.
What do students need to bring to class?
Despite not needing to bring notebooks or folders to class, students are encouraged to bring their own stationery.
Arrange a Free Consultation with Our Admissions Team
We’re here to help you choose the ideal summer experience. Schedule a no-obligation call with a member of our friendly team to explore your options, ask questions, and receive expert guidance tailored to your child’s interests and goals.