Business Pioneers Summer Program at New College, University of Oxford

Course Description: Business Pioneers Summer Program at New College, University of Oxford

Business Pioneers is an immersive introduction to entrepreneurship designed to inspire students to think creatively, communicate confidently, and collaborate effectively. Set within the academic environment of the University of Oxford, the programme explores how ideas are born, shaped, and transformed into meaningful ventures 💡.

Through guided discussion, practical challenges, and collaborative projects, students discover how products and services are developed, how businesses communicate their value, and how thoughtful decision-making supports long-term success. As the programme progresses, students gain confidence in sharing ideas, contributing to group work, and approaching complex problems with curiosity and creativity.

This course is ideal for students who are curious about business, leadership, innovation, and the real-world impact of ideas 🌍.

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Learning Approach

The programme follows an interactive, student-centred approach that blends academic exploration with hands-on experience. Each session combines:

• Structured discussion and guided debate 🗣️

• Practical workshops and simulations 🛠️

• Team-based problem-solving activities 🤝

Students take on the role of young decision-makers, experimenting with business models, branding strategies, and leadership styles inspired by real-world practice. Tasks are carefully scaffolded to evolve with students’ growing confidence, allowing them to move from idea exploration to leadership roles within group settings.

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Core Themes & Academic Focus

Entrepreneurship & Idea Generation 🚀

Students explore how entrepreneurial opportunities are identified and developed, learning how ideas are shaped, tested, refined, and adapted.

Branding, Marketing & Communication 🎯

Students examine how storytelling, visual identity, and messaging influence audiences and help build interest, trust, and recognition around a concept or product.

Finance & Budget Planning 💰

The programme introduces budgeting basics, cost awareness, and how financial decisions support sustainable and realistic business planning.

Leadership & Team Dynamics 🌟

Through collaborative tasks, students gain early leadership experience, learning how to share responsibility, guide discussions, and support group decision-making.

Ethical & Sustainable Business 🌱

Students consider responsible business practices, sustainability, and the importance of creating ideas that positively impact people and the wider world.

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Practical & Applied Learning

Learning is reinforced through a rich mix of applied activities, including:

• Structured debates and discussion forums

• Persuasive speaking and confidence-building exercises 🎤

• Presentation design and storytelling workshops

• Q&A panels and peer feedback sessions

• Team-based business creation challenges

Students work towards two major programme outputs:

1. Paired Historical Case-Study Presentation

   Students analyse a historical business or entrepreneurial example, exploring decision-making, communication strategies, and outcomes.

2. Final Group Business Pitch 💼

   Teams develop an original business idea and deliver an investor-style pitch, bringing together branding, finance, leadership, and communication skills.

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Skills Development

Communication & Presentation Skills

Clear speaking, persuasive delivery, and confident use of visual tools 📊.

Leadership & Collaboration

Learning how to lead tasks, share roles, and contribute meaningfully within teams 🤝.

Financial & Strategic Awareness

Developing early financial reasoning and strategic thinking skills.

Creative & Critical Thinking

Exploring innovative ideas, evaluating outcomes, and solving problems creatively 🧠.

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Programme Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students gain:

• A strong understanding of how business ideas evolve

• Increased confidence in leadership and teamwork

• Practical experience presenting and collaborating

• The ability to express ideas clearly, creatively, and with purpose

These transferable skills support future academic study, interviews, and leadership opportunities 📈.

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Certification

Students who complete the programme receive a Certificate of Achievement, recognising their creativity, teamwork, and active participation throughout the course 🏅.

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, Sapphire-only 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 ✨.