Business, Entrepreneurship & Start-Ups at New College, University of Oxford

Course Description: Business, Entrepreneurship & Start-Ups at New College, University of Oxford

Business, Entrepreneurship & Start-Up is a dynamic programme designed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to think boldly, act strategically, and understand how ideas evolve into successful businesses. Set within the academic environment of the University of Oxford, the course introduces students to the principles that underpin innovation, growth, and long-term success in the global business world 🌍.

Students explore how established companies and start-ups alike identify opportunities, respond to challenges, and create value. From early-stage idea development to sustainability and ethical decision-making, the programme connects creativity with commercial awareness, helping students build confidence as forward-thinking young innovators.

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Learning Approach

Learning is driven by real-world relevance and active participation. Through a combination of case studies, teamwork, and interactive challenges, students step into the roles of innovators, strategists, and business leaders.

Each session blends:

• Guided discussion and analysis 🗣️

• Collaborative problem-solving and teamwork 🤝

• Presentations and reflective exercises

This hands-on approach mirrors how real businesses operate, encouraging students to apply concepts practically rather than learning them in isolation. As the programme progresses, students are encouraged to take greater ownership of ideas, voice their perspectives, and lead group discussions.

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Core Themes & Academic Focus

Innovation & Creativity 💡

Students explore how leading brands transform ideas into reality and how creative thinking drives business growth, differentiation, and competitive advantage.

Finance & Strategy 📊

The course introduces students to budgeting, planning, and basic risk management, helping them understand how financial decisions support sustainable and scalable business models.

Branding & Marketing 🎯

Students examine how storytelling, brand identity, and customer loyalty shape strong global brands. They explore how businesses communicate value and build meaningful connections with audiences.

Ethics & Sustainability 🌱

The programme encourages responsible thinking, introducing students to ethical decision-making, sustainability, and the role businesses play in addressing social and environmental challenges.

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Practical & Applied Learning

Students engage deeply with well-known global case studies such as Airbnb, Nike, and Tesla, analysing how these organisations innovate, adapt, and grow. Learning is reinforced through:

• Structured debates and business simulations

• Group problem-solving challenges

• Strategy discussions and decision-making exercises

The course builds towards a capstone project, where student teams design, develop, and pitch their own start-up concept. This final challenge brings together creativity, strategy, teamwork, and communication, allowing students to present a well-reasoned and investor-style business idea 💼.

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Skills Development

Entrepreneurial Mindset 🚀

Students develop the ability to identify opportunities, take initiative, and turn ideas into action.

Strategic Thinking

They learn how to plan effectively, adapt to change, and solve problems in fast-moving business environments.

Teamwork & Communication

Through collaborative projects and presentations, students build leadership skills, confidence in public speaking, and the ability to work productively within teams 🧠.

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Programme Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will have a strong understanding of what drives successful businesses and how entrepreneurial thinking applies across industries. They leave with:

• Practical experience in business planning and innovation

• Greater confidence in leadership and teamwork settings

• A clearer understanding of strategy, branding, and sustainability

These transferable skills provide a strong foundation for future academic study, interviews, and real-world entrepreneurial pursuits 📈.

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Certification

Upon successful completion, students receive a Certificate of Achievement, recognising their creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurial development throughout the programme 🏅.

A Day in the Life at New College, University of Oxford 🏛️�*

Each day at New College, University of Oxford is carefully structured to balance academic challenge, interactive learning, and time to connect, reflect, and recharge. Students experience a supportive routine that encourages curiosity, confidence, and personal growth — all within one of Oxford’s most historic and inspiring college settings.

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A Typical Weekday

Morning

After breakfast, students begin the day with an engaging academic session such as a masterclass or interactive seminar in their chosen subject. Sessions are discussion-led and exploratory, encouraging students to analyse ideas, ask questions, and apply concepts rather than passively listen. Teaching takes place within college teaching spaces, often overlooking New College’s historic quad and gardens.

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Afternoon

Following lunch, students may take part in a second academic session, workshop, or applied project. Afternoons often include collaborative group work, guest talks, or enrichment activities that connect learning to real-world contexts. Some days may also feature off-site academic or cultural visits, allowing students to engage directly with Oxford’s wider intellectual environment 🧠📚.

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Evening

After dinner, evenings are relaxed and social. Students wind down through a varied programme of activities such as quizzes, games, discussion circles, film nights, creative challenges, or cultural events. These sessions help students build friendships, confidence, and a strong sense of community within the college 🤝✨.

Dedicated pastoral staff are present throughout the day, supporting students both academically and personally, and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment beyond the classroom.

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Weekends & Excursions 🌍🚶‍♂️

Weekends offer a change of pace and a chance to explore beyond the college walls. Students take part in guided excursions and cultural experiences, which may include:

• Oxford city walking tours and college exploration

• Visits to iconic academic landmarks such as libraries and historic halls

• Punting on the River Cherwell, a classic Oxford tradition

• Optional trips to nearby cities such as London or Cambridge

These experiences allow students to unwind, experience British culture, and form lasting friendships — all while remaining fully supported by on-site staff.

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Accommodation at New College �*

Students stay in modern, private en-suite accommodation within New College’s secure and gated grounds. While surrounded by centuries-old architecture and gardens, rooms offer contemporary comfort and privacy, giving students a genuine taste of independent university living.

Pastoral staff live on site and are available 24/7, ensuring students feel safe, supported, and at home throughout their stay.

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Supervision & Student Welfare

Student safety and wellbeing are a top priority. The programme maintains a high staff-to-student ratio, with trained pastoral staff living on site and supervising activities throughout the day and evening.

Support is always available — whether students need academic guidance, help settling in, or simply someone to talk to ❤️.

Meals & Dining at at New College 🍽️

All meals are enjoyed on site, helping students settle into a comfortable daily routine and build a strong sense of community around the dining table. Meal times are an important part of the student experience — offering structure to the day, a chance to relax, and plenty of opportunities to socialise with friends from around the world 🌍.

Students receive full-board catering, which typically includes:

• Breakfast – a nourishing start to the day before morning classes

• Lunch – a balanced midday meal between academic sessions and activities

• Dinner – an evening meal served after the day’s learning and workshops

• Snacks / light refreshments may also be available depending on the schedule

Menus are designed to support active, busy days and usually include a mix of familiar favourites and international options, with vegetarian choices available daily. Dietary needs can be accommodated where notified in advance, including common requirements such as allergies, halal/vegetarian preferences, and other medical dietary considerations ✅.

On excursion days, students are provided with meals and/or packed lunches as required, ensuring they remain well-fed and energised while off campus 🚌.

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Mobile Phones & Digital Use

Students are welcome to keep and use their phones. However, during academic sessions such as seminars, workshops, and talks, phones are expected to be put away to ensure full engagement and focus. This helps students gain maximum value from the learning experience while still staying connected during free time 📵➡️📱.

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Arrival Day Experience

On arrival day, students are warmly welcomed by the on-site team and guided through a smooth check-in process. Ice-breaker activities and group introductions help students settle quickly, make friends, and feel part of the community from the very first day.

Families receive confirmation once students have arrived safely and are settled on campus ✅.

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Visa Support

If a student is applying through an educational agent, the agent typically assists with the visa process. For independent applicants, guidance and support are available to help families understand requirements and access the correct documentation.

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Travel & Airport Transfers

Travel is usually arranged by families or agents. However, an optional meet-and-greet airport transfer service can be arranged upon request. This includes collection from major UK airports and transfer to the University of Bath.

Transfer Options (Optional, Additional Cost)

Airports Covered

• London Heathrow (LHR)

• Transfers from Gatwick, Stansted, or Luton available on request (private quote)

Transfer Type

• Shared transfers for Sunday arrivals and Saturday departures (within set time windows)

• Students travel with peers, accompanied by staff, making this a cost-effective and social option 🚌

Transfer Window

• Arrival: Sunday 09:00–17:00

• Departure: Saturday 09:00–17:00

• Maximum 2-hour wait time with staff at arrivals

Private Transfers (Heathrow)

• One way: £230

• Return: £430

Unaccompanied Minor Support

• £75 per journey (full escort support through arrivals)

Out-of-Window Transfers

• Private or shared options may be available depending on arrival times (additional cost)

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About New College, University of Oxford 🌿🏛️

Historic Excellence, Modern Comfort, Exclusive Access

New College offers a rare combination of modern accommodation within one of Oxford’s most historic colleges. Students live and learn in a setting that reflects centuries of academic tradition while benefiting from contemporary facilities, structured pastoral care, and immersive learning.

Campus Highlights

• Private access areas

• Modern en-suite accommodation

• Secure, gated college grounds

• Teaching spaces within the historic quad

• Access to New College gardens, chapel, and dining hall

Local Highlights & Cultural Exploration 🌿🏛️

Beyond the classroom, students immerse themselves in the distinctive character of Oxford, a city where academic tradition, natural beauty, and student life intertwine. From tranquil riverside moments to iconic scholarly landmarks, Oxford offers an inspiring setting for reflection, discovery, and cultural connection.

Students experience classic Oxford traditions such as punting on the River Cherwell, offering a relaxed way to unwind and see the city from a new perspective. Guided university and city walking tours introduce students to Oxford’s historic streets, colleges, and hidden corners, helping them understand how the city has evolved around its world-famous university 🎓.

Visits to renowned academic spaces such as the Bodleian Library allow students to step inside one of the world’s most important research libraries, connecting them directly to centuries of scholarship and learning. University comparison trips provide valuable insight into different UK academic environments, helping students place their experience in a broader educational context.

These cultural experiences are carefully balanced with academic commitments, ensuring students return to campus inspired, refreshed, and more connected to the intellectual and cultural life of Oxford ✨.