Science and Technology: Sustainable Futures at Earlscliffe Summer School for Teens

Course Description: Science and Technology: Sustainable Futures at Earlscliffe Summer School for Teens

The Science and Technology: Sustainable Futures Programme explores how scientific knowledge and technological innovation can be used to address some of the most urgent challenges facing the modern world. Designed for students aged 14–17, the programme focuses on sustainability, examining how energy, resources, and technology can be managed responsibly to support a more resilient future.

Across two weeks of immersive academic study, students investigate real-world environmental issues such as climate change, renewable energy, food security, and resource management. Through hands-on experimentation, collaborative projects, and applied problem-solving, participants gain both theoretical understanding and practical skills relevant to future study in STEM and environmental disciplines.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows an interactive, project-based academic model, combining structured seminars with practical workshops and field-based research. Students are encouraged to:

• Apply scientific principles to real-world challenges

• Experiment, prototype, and test ideas

• Communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively

Collaboration is central to the programme, mirroring how scientists and engineers work in professional research and innovation settings.

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Core Academic Content

Foundations of Sustainability

Students begin by examining sustainability from first principles. Topics include:

• How energy is produced, stored, and distributed

• Food, water, and material security

• Systems thinking, efficiency, and balance

• The environmental impact of technology and innovation

Sustainability is presented as a practical scientific challenge rather than an abstract concept.

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Environmental Science and Global Challenges

Students explore how science addresses global environmental issues. Topics include:

• Climate change and carbon footprints

• Renewable and alternative energy systems

• Resource management and conservation

• Biodiversity and ecosystem resilience

Case studies help students understand how scientific solutions are being implemented around the world.

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Applied Science and Engineering Design

This module focuses on turning ideas into tangible solutions. Students:

• Design and build small-scale models and prototypes

• Test sustainable technologies in controlled conditions

• Evaluate the effectiveness and limitations of their designs

Projects follow the same framework used by researchers and engineers: identifying a problem, proposing a solution, building a model, and communicating results.

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Sustainable Technology Frameworks

Students learn to make their science visible and understandable. Emphasis is placed on:

• Explaining how a design works

• Demonstrating impact and real-world relevance

• Defending ideas under questioning

This module develops both scientific reasoning and communication skills.

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Subject Theme: Shaping Tomorrow

A central theme of the programme, Shaping Tomorrow, transforms the learning environment into a global sustainability conference. Students take on the role of future innovators and thought leaders, preparing projects that address environmental challenges.

Depending on their focus, students may:

• Present a sustainability model or prototype

• Deliver a keynote-style academic talk

• Showcase a live demonstration or documentary-style project

The programme culminates in a live conference-style event where students present their work to an audience, developing confidence, clarity, and conviction.

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Time to Shine: Sustainability Projects

Week One – Renewable Energy Design

Students design and demonstrate a small-scale renewable energy system, such as:

• Solar-powered devices

• Miniature wind or water turbines

• Hybrid energy models

Projects focus on how energy is captured, stored, and distributed, and how these systems could be scaled for real-world impact.

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Week Two – Resource Management Solutions

Students develop projects addressing sustainable use of:

• Food (e.g. hydroponics or urban farming systems)

• Water (e.g. filtration and purification models)

• Materials (e.g. waste reduction and reuse systems)

Each project is presented as a working solution, with students explaining both how it functions and why it matters.

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Fieldwork Research

Students extend learning beyond the classroom through practical fieldwork. Activities may include:

• Testing water filtration systems outdoors

• Experimenting with vertical growing structures

• Evaluating materials and designs in natural conditions

This hands-on research reinforces the link between scientific theory and real-world application.

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Academic Difficulty & Support

No prior experience in science or technology is required. Key ideas and vocabulary are introduced step by step, and all materials are provided. The programme prioritises:

• Curiosity and participation

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Confidence-building through practice

Students receive ongoing academic guidance and feedback throughout the course.

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Programme Benefits

Participants benefit from:

• Personalised academic coaching from experienced tutors

• A Certificate of Achievement confirming successful completion

• The option to request a Letter of Reference, supporting future academic and university applications

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in science, technology, and sustainability

• Enjoy hands-on learning and problem-solving

• Want to explore how STEM subjects address global challenges

• Are considering future study in environmental science, engineering, or related fields

No specialist background is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong understanding of sustainability from a scientific perspective

• Practical experience designing and testing sustainable technologies

• Improved teamwork, communication, and presentation skills

• Greater confidence applying science to real-world challenges

Excursions �*

A Rich Programme of Cultural & Recreational Experiences

Students enjoy a carefully planned excursions programme, designed to complement academic learning with cultural discovery and fun. Each week includes two full-day excursions, with destinations varying depending on the arrival week. All students will participate in a London excursion, ensuring exposure to the UK’s capital and its world-famous landmarks.

Sample excursions include:

• London – Guided visits to major attractions, museums, and iconic locations

• Thorpe Park – One of the UK’s most popular theme parks, offering a full day of excitement

• Dreamland, Margate – A classic British seaside amusement park with a lively atmosphere

• Ice skating in Gillingham – A fun, supervised recreational activity enjoyed by students of all levels

Excursions are fully supervised by staff, include all admissions, and are reviewed annually to ensure they remain enriching, age-appropriate, and engaging.

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What’s Included in the Programme ✅

The programme fee provides excellent value and includes everything students need for a safe, structured, and enjoyable summer experience:

• 16 hours of tuition per week

• Comfortable accommodation

• All meals

• Course materials

• A full extracurricular and social programme

• Cultural excursions and day trips

• Comprehensive travel insurance

• Certificate of completion

• Academic progress report

• End-of-programme leavers’ party

• Towels and bedding

• Weekly laundry service

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Discover the Campus & Location �*

Located in the seaside town of Folkestone, Kent, just 54 minutes from London, the campus offers students the perfect balance of academic focus and coastal relaxation.

During the academic year, the site operates as an independent sixth-form college. In the summer, it becomes a vibrant international learning environment, welcoming students from around the world.

As part of the College Pathways offering, students:

• Explore academic subjects in depth

• Study 20 hours per week

• Engage in collaborative, project-based learning that mirrors real-world contexts

A varied programme of social activities, excursions, and evening events brings students together, fostering friendships and memorable shared experiences beyond the classroom.

The programme is British Council accredited, reflecting high standards in teaching quality, student care, and safeguarding.

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Campus Facilities �*

The campus offers modern, well-maintained facilities designed to support both learning and leisure:

• Landscaped campus gardens

• Bright, fully equipped classrooms

• Modern boarding accommodation

• Spacious dining hall

• Student common rooms for relaxation and socialising

• Wi-Fi throughout the campus

• Laundry facilities

• Towels and bedding provided

Accommodation options include:

• Single en-suite rooms

• Twin en-suite rooms

• Triple en-suite rooms

• Four-bed rooms

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Social Programme �*

The social programme is a key part of student life and is planned and supervised by staff every day after lessons.

On-Site Activities

Students may take part in:

• Table tennis, billiards, badminton, volleyball, basketball

• Football, softball, tennis, rounders

• Swimming sessions

• Karaoke and quiz nights

• Talent shows and themed disco evenings

• Team challenges such as Minute to Win It, scavenger hunts, and house competitions

• Creative activities including baking challenges and arts & crafts

Thanks to the campus’s coastal location, regular beach visits—both during the day and in the evening—are a popular highlight. Students also enjoy easy access to Folkestone’s Creative Quarter and town centre.

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Excursions & Trips �*

In addition to weekly full-day excursions, students take part in evening and weekend trips, such as:

• Bowling, laser tag, or cinema visits

• Trips to Canterbury, including its world-famous cathedral

• River boat tours

• Shopping trips to Bluewater

• Theme parks and seaside towns such as Margate and Dreamland

Students also travel by high-speed train to London, accompanied by staff. Past visits have included:

• London Eye

• Tower of London

• British Museum

• Natural History Museum

• London Dungeons

During excursions, students may be allowed limited, remotely supervised free time in small groups, supporting independence while maintaining safety.

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Optional Extras ⭐

Students may enhance their summer experience by selecting optional activities at an additional cost. These must be booked at the time of enrolment and are subject to availability.

Available options may include:

Paintballing – £145 per week

A team-based outdoor activity in a forest setting, with all safety equipment provided and required.

West End Musical Trip – £225 per week

A trip to see Disney’s The Lion King™ in London’s West End, an unforgettable cultural experience.

Warner Bros. Harry Potter™ Studio Tour – £225 per week

Explore iconic film sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Dumbledore’s office.

Paddle Boarding – £145 per week

Learn essential paddleboarding skills including balance, paddling, turning, and stopping in a supervised setting.

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Accommodation & Meals 🍽️

The campus consists of renovated Victorian and Edwardian buildings, providing comfortable residential and academic spaces within walking distance of:

• The beach and Leas promenade

• Folkestone town centre

• High-speed train links to London St Pancras

Students live in supervised, gender-separated accommodation. Rooms are mostly twin, with some single and triple options, all featuring en-suite bathrooms.

Meals are served in the dining hall, offering a varied menu of British and international cuisine. Dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, halal, allergies, etc.) can be accommodated when requested in advance.

A Day in the Life at Earlscliffe Summer School ☀️�*

Each day at Earlscliffe is carefully structured to balance academic learning, creativity, physical activity, and social time—giving students a true summer school experience in a safe and supportive environment.

*� Morning: A Strong Start to the Day

The day begins with a 7:15 am wake-up, allowing students time to get ready and meet friends before breakfast. From 7:50 am to 9:00 am, students enjoy a relaxed breakfast in the dining hall, preparing for the academic day ahead.

At 9:15 am, lessons begin. Morning sessions run from 9:15 am to 10:45 am, followed by a short break from 10:45 am to 11:00 am. Students then return to class for a second academic block from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm.

Lessons combine theory and practical learning, encouraging participation, collaboration, and real-world thinking in a supportive classroom environment.

*�️ Midday: Refuel and Reset

From 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, students enjoy lunch, a chance to relax, recharge, and socialise with classmates and staff.

*� Afternoon: Projects, Creativity & Exploration

Afternoons are designed to develop confidence, teamwork, and creativity.

From 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, students take part in “Time To Shine” project sessions. Across the week, this includes:

• Introducing the weekly project

• Brainstorming ideas in small groups

• Developing presentations

• Presenting work to classmates

Students then return to their houses between 3:00 pm and 3:30 pm to prepare for afternoon activities.

From 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, students enjoy a rotating programme of sports, creative activities, and excursions, such as:

• Team games and sports

• Arts and crafts or photography

• Trips to Folkestone, the beach, or local attractions

• Park games and organised challenges

*� Early Evening: Downtime & Dinner

Between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm, students have downtime in their houses—a chance to rest, shower, call home, or relax with friends.

Dinner is served from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, offering a varied menu to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

*� Evening: Social Life & Fun

Evenings are all about connection and enjoyment. From 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm, students take part in supervised evening activities, which may include:

• Welcome games and ice-breakers

• House nights

• Bowling or cinema trips

• Team challenges and competitions

• Talent shows, discos, or themed nights

These activities help students build friendships, confidence, and unforgettable memories.

*� Night: Wind Down

At 9:30 pm, students return to their houses for quiet time. Lights out is at 10:00 pm, ensuring everyone is well-rested and ready for the next day.

*� Excursions & Weekends

Weekends include full-day excursions, such as:

• Exploring London’s landmarks and museums

• Visiting theme parks and seaside attractions

• Shopping trips and cultural outings

These excursions are fully supervised and offer students a chance to explore the UK while bonding with their peers.

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English Language Requirements �*

Students must have a minimum English level of B1+ (Intermediate) or above. Specific course requirements may vary.

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Arrivals & Transfers ✈️

Supervised airport transfers are provided from:

• London Heathrow Airport

• London Gatwick Airport

Arrival flights must land between 06:00 and 17:00 Departure flights must depart between 11:00 and 18:00

Transport is provided via:

• Staffed private coach

• Staffed minibus

• Staffed taxi

The method used depends on group size and arrival times.

For arrivals outside these hours or via other airports, families must consult the admissions team in advance. Additional fees may apply.

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Teaching & Academic Staff 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Teachers are carefully selected for their qualifications, experience, and ability to work with international students.

• English teachers are fully qualified EFL specialists

• Subject tutors include experienced teachers, university lecturers, postgraduate specialists, and expert tutors

• Recent graduates and postgraduates contribute up-to-date academic insight and advice on university applications

Many staff return year after year, reflecting high teaching standards and programme quality. The programme has received British Council recognition for strengths in teaching, course design, safeguarding, and student care.

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Student Safety & Welfare 🛡️

Student wellbeing is a top priority, supported by:

• A high staff-to-student ratio

• Dedicated welfare staff overseeing pastoral care

• House Parents / Mentors responsible for daily student support

• Staff trained in safeguarding and first aid

• 24-hour staff availability

• A dedicated admissions contact for families

The programme has been recognised for excellence in student care and safeguarding of under-18s.

Do You Need a Visa to Attend?

Checking whether you need a visa to attend one of our summer courses is quick and straightforward. We recommend using the UK Government’s official visa checker to confirm the requirements for your nationality.

From 2025, most visitors travelling to the UK for short-term study will need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

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Standard Visitor Visa

If you do require a visa, the appropriate option for attending our courses is the Standard Visitor Visa.

This visa allows students to take part in short-term educational programmes in the UK.

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EU, EEA & Swiss Nationals

Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can continue to travel to the UK for holidays or short visits without applying for a visa. This policy remains unchanged following Brexit.

However, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) may still be required (see below).

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Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

If you do not need a visa for a short stay in the UK, you may be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead.

Key ETA Dates

• From 8 January 2025 Eligible non-European visitors will need an ETA to enter the UK.

• From 5 March 2025 Eligible European nationals will be able to apply for an ETA.

• From 2 April 2025 Eligible Europeans will need an ETA to travel to the UK.

• From April 2025 All visitors who do not need a visa and do not already hold UK immigration status will require an ETA.

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ETA Cost & Processing Time

• Cost: £10 (expected to rise to £16 in the coming months)

• Processing time: Typically up to 3 days, though some applications may take longer

We strongly recommend applying well in advance of travel.

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Digital eVisa

Some travellers may be eligible for a digital eVisa instead of a physical visa. Eligibility and application details can be checked on the UK Government website.

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Where to Apply & Get More Information

• Check if you need a visa or ETA using the UK Government visa checker

• Learn more about ETAs and eligibility on the UK Government website

• Apply for an ETA via the official UK Government application page