Exceptional Summer Pre-College Engineering Program for High Schoolers at a top university in Tokyo, Japan

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Engineering Program for High Schoolers at a top university in Tokyo, Japan

The Engineering Programme provides an academically rigorous introduction to engineering as an interdisciplinary field that combines science, mathematics, technology, and creative problem-solving. Designed for students aged 15–18, the programme builds on existing strengths in STEM subjects while introducing the breadth of modern engineering and its role in shaping industries, infrastructure, and future innovation.

Based in London, the programme blends university-style academic learning with real-world engineering contexts, giving students insight into both the intellectual demands of engineering degrees and the diverse career pathways available to future engineers.

***

Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a project-based, university-style learning model designed to move beyond theory into practical application. Students are encouraged to:

• Apply scientific and mathematical principles to real engineering challenges

• Work collaboratively on hands-on projects and case studies

• Develop independent, analytical, and solution-focused thinking

Sessions are academically challenging yet fully supported, helping students deepen understanding while building confidence in technical reasoning and communication.

***

Core Academic Content

Introduction to Engineering & Industry

Students begin by exploring engineering as a discipline and profession, examining:

• The major branches of engineering and their industrial applications

• How engineers drive innovation across technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing

• The societal impact of engineering solutions in a global context

This module establishes a broad understanding of engineering’s role in shaping the modern world and introduces key career pathways within the field.

***

Engineering Fundamentals

This module develops a strong technical foundation by introducing core principles from mechanical and electrical engineering. Students explore:

• Forces, motion, and mechanical systems

• Basic circuit theory and electrical components

• How mechanical and electronic systems interact in real-world applications

Hands-on activities reinforce theory and prepare students for more advanced engineering concepts.

***

Sustainable Engineering & Modern Practices

Students examine how engineers address environmental challenges through innovation, focusing on:

• Renewable energy systems

• Green infrastructure and sustainable design

• Emerging technologies that support environmental responsibility

Case studies demonstrate how engineers balance performance, efficiency, and sustainability when designing solutions for global challenges.

***

Electronic Engineering

This module introduces electronic engineering as a key driver of modern technology. Students explore:

• Principles of electromagnetism and electronic components

• Digital and analogue circuits

• The internal systems of devices such as smartphones and laptops

Practical design tasks include examining the operation of circuits and exploring the working principles behind communication technologies, including simple radio receivers.

***

Professional Development & Career Insight

Students gain exposure to real-world engineering careers through:

• Guest lectures and expert panel discussions

• Insight into engineering roles across industries such as aerospace, energy, and manufacturing

• Discussion of emerging careers and future technologies

These sessions bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice, helping students make informed decisions about future pathways.

***

Industry Exposure

The programme includes industry visits, allowing students to:

• Observe engineering environments outside the classroom

• Interact with professionals working in engineering-related fields

• Understand how academic knowledge translates into workplace practice

These experiences help students contextualise learning and expand their awareness of engineering careers.

***

Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project. Guided by a provided brief, students:

• Research an engineering topic related to the course content

• Apply theoretical knowledge to a practical or conceptual challenge

• Deliver a presentation to peers, followed by discussion and feedback

The project develops research skills, independent thinking, and professional presentation abilities.

***

Academic Preparation & Support

Some tutors may assign preparatory reading or short tasks before the programme begins. These activities are strongly encouraged, as they help students engage confidently with advanced material and university-style learning from the outset.

***

Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in engineering, technology, or applied sciences

• Enjoy problem-solving, design, and analytical thinking

• Are considering future study in engineering or related STEM fields

• Want early exposure to university-style academic learning

No prior engineering experience is required beyond standard school-level science and mathematics.

***

Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundational understanding of engineering principles

• Experience with project-based, university-style learning

• Enhanced analytical, technical, and communication skills

• Greater clarity about academic and career pathways in engineering

Where You’ll Be Staying 🏙️

Participants on the Tokyo programme stay in high-quality student accommodation selected for its safety, comfort, and proximity to academic venues. Located within 15 minutes of the University of Tokyo area, the accommodation allows easy access to learning spaces and Tokyo’s cultural landmarks.

The residence provides a secure and supportive environment, balancing academic focus with opportunities to explore the city. Modern amenities and shared communal spaces encourage social interaction, independence, and lasting friendships. Living in Tokyo offers students an authentic experience in one of the world’s most innovative and exciting cities.

Location: Central Tokyo, 113-8654, Japan

***

Accommodation Facilities & Living Arrangements 🛏️

Participants are accommodated in a local Tokyo hotel-style residence with a student-focused setup.

• Dorm-style rooms with multiple occupancy

• All rooms are air-conditioned

• Shared bathroom facilities (typically one bathroom per four participants)

• Accommodation areas are separated by gender

• Comfortable social spaces and quiet study areas

• Secure rooms with individual keys provided at registration

• Housekeeping staff access rooms during the day for essential services (e.g. towel replacement)

***

How Secure Is the Accommodation? �*

Tokyo is a safe and welcoming city, well accustomed to hosting international students.

Accommodation security includes:

• Secure, monitored public entrances

• Key-controlled access, especially at night

• CCTV in many shared areas

• Restricted public visiting hours

• Supervised overnight accommodation by the residential pastoral team

Participants are encouraged to lock their rooms during the day. Valuables can be stored securely in the College Manager’s office upon request.

Will I Be Sharing a Bedroom? �*

Yes. All rooms are shared, multi-occupancy and allocated at random.

• Shared bathroom facilities (typically one bathroom per four students)

• Accommodation and bathroom areas are separated by gender

Do I Need to Speak Japanese? 🗣️

No. There is no requirement to speak Japanese.

All classes, workshops, and programme activities are conducted entirely in English.

Can a Parent or Guardian Stay with Me? 👨‍👩‍�*

Parents or guardians are not permitted to live on-site during the programme.

Many families choose to stay privately in hotels or rented accommodation in the city. While we do not partner with accommodation providers, platforms such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor can be helpful for comparing options.

How Fluent Do I Need to Be in English? 🗣️

Our tutors are experienced in teaching undergraduate-level students from around the world and are highly supportive of participants whose first language is not English.

While students do not need to be native speakers, we recommend a minimum English proficiency level of B2 to ensure participants can fully engage with the academic content, discussions, and project-based learning throughout the programme.

This level allows students to follow lectures confidently, contribute to seminars, and benefit fully from the programme’s academic depth.

Small Class Sizes 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Students benefit from an intimate and highly interactive learning environment, with just 7–10 students per class. This small-group setting allows tutors to provide personalised guidance, encourage active participation, and tailor discussions to each student’s interests and academic goals.

Smaller class sizes ensure every student’s voice is heard, fostering confidence, deeper understanding, and meaningful engagement throughout the programme.

UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

***

Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

***

Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

***

A Day in the Life in Tokyo 🇯�*

Weekdays: Career Learning & Industry Insight

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation (07:30–09:30) ☀️

Students begin the day with breakfast, using the time to prepare for a full programme of career-focused learning in one of the world’s most innovative cities.

Late Morning: Project-Based Sessions (09:30–11:15) �*

Mornings are centred around project-based sessions, where students collaborate on real-world challenges related to their chosen career pathway. These sessions develop problem-solving, teamwork, and professional thinking.

Midday: Lunch Break (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

A relaxed lunch break gives students time to recharge, socialise, and prepare for the afternoon programme.

Early Afternoon: Career Skills & Industry Visits (13:15–14:15) �*

Afternoons often feature career skills workshops focused on communication, leadership, and workplace readiness. On selected days, students take part in industry visits, gaining first-hand insight into Japanese and global companies.

Mid-Afternoon: Expert Workshops & 1:1 Support (14:30–16:45) �*

Students participate in expert-led workshops, continue project-based learning, or receive 1:1 tutoring and coaching, allowing for personalised feedback and mentorship.

Late Afternoon: Break (16:45–18:00) ☕

A scheduled break provides time to rest and recharge before the evening programme.

Evening: Dinner (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Students come together for dinner, reflecting on the day and connecting with peers and mentors.

Evening Programme: Social & Cultural Activities (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings include a rotating programme of social, cultural, and professional activities, such as guest speaker talks, fireside chats, quiz nights, Dragons’ Den-style challenges, visits to Tokyo Tower, arcade nights, creative workshops, and movie nights.

***

Weekends & Cultural Excursions: Tokyo Beyond the Classroom �*

Weekends and selected days include full-day cultural excursions, giving students the opportunity to experience Tokyo’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.

• Asakusa cultural tour with immersive Samurai and Ninja experiences

• Meiji Shrine and Harajuku sightseeing tour, exploring history, fashion, and youth culture

• Guided city exploration combined with supervised free time

These experiences provide a deeper cultural context and a refreshing change of pace from classroom learning.

***

Final Days: Presentations & Celebration �*

As the programme concludes, students:

• Deliver project presentations, showcasing their professional development and learning outcomes

• Take part in a graduation ceremony

• Celebrate together at a final night party, marking the end of an unforgettable Tokyo experience

How Much Unsupervised Time Will There Be? ⏰

The programme is designed to provide a realistic insight into university life.

• Students may sign out in small groups of two or three during approved daytime periods to explore Tokyo

• Evening sign-outs are not permitted

• Overnight accommodation is fully supervised by the residential pastoral team

***

Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

***

What’s Included in the Programme Fees ✅

The participation fee includes:

• 13 nights’ accommodation in a central Tokyo location

• Breakfast and dinner throughout the programme

• 25 hours of project-based lessons and industry workshops led by subject experts

• 4 full-day industry visits to local companies

• Carefully designed study and lecture materials

• Mentor programme and access to academic support resources

• Comprehensive insurance

• Full-day and half-day excursions

• Celebratory dinner

• Graduation ceremony and certificate

• A personalised Career Development Plan from subject experts

Please note: Travel to and from the programme is not included in the participation fee.

***

How Do I Get to the Accommodation? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 14:00 and 17:00 on the first Sunday of the programme. Our team will welcome students, complete registration, and escort them to accommodation. Please note that rooms may not be available until 15:00.

Airport Transfers

If arriving at Tokyo Haneda Airport, a shared, chaperoned airport transfer service is available.

• Arrival Sunday departures: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Departure Saturday transfers: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers are bookable after enrolment for a fee per journey

Participants arriving via other airports or alternative transport will receive full instructions in their Welcome Pack. Contact details are shared closer to the programme start date.

Transfers to Tokyo are £105 per journey

***

Who Will Be My Tutor? 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

All tutors have prior experience teaching at university level and undergo enhanced background checks before joining the programme.

Each year, the programme welcomes expert tutors and leading academics, many of whom have backgrounds from Oxbridge, Ivy League institutions, or the University of Toronto. Tutors are committed to delivering engaging, high-quality teaching while providing personalised academic support.

Are You Affiliated with the Universities? �*

No. The programme provider is not affiliated with the University of Tokyo or other universities in the city.

Teaching staff, facilities, and partnerships are contracted in a private capacity, ensuring academic independence while maintaining high teaching standards.

***

What Happens at the End of the Programme? �*

Lessons conclude at 16:00 on the final Friday. Students then take part in:

• A graduation ceremony

• Celebratory dinner

• Evening celebration with peers

On Saturday, shared airport transfer services operate (must be booked in advance). Students may depart any time after breakfast, but must:

• Check out and return keys by 10:00

Staff remain on-site until 15:00, and luggage can be securely stored until departure if needed.

***

What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

All participants receive:

• A Certificate of Participation, awarded at graduation

• Written Participant Feedback from industry experts, evaluating progress and offering recommendations

• Detailed feedback from 1:1 coaching sessions, supporting future education and career planning

***

Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

***

Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

***

Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

***

What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.

***