Engineering Summer Programme at a top university in Tokyo, Japan

Course Description: Engineering Summer Programme at a top university in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo Summer Programmes for High School Students (Ages 15–18)

Discover an unforgettable summer in Tokyo, Japan—one of the world’s most dynamic and culturally rich cities. Our Tokyo summer programmes are designed for high school students aged 15 to 18 who are eager to explore their passions while experiencing life in a global hub of innovation, creativity, and tradition.

Offered during the summer months, these career-focused academic experiences allow students to dive deep into one of three subject pathways, gaining valuable insights into industries while exploring Japanese culture, society, and history. With traditional ceremonies, expert-led workshops, and excursions to iconic locations, these programmes provide a unique opportunity for personal growth and academic enrichment.

Students will stay in a comfortable hotel located near the top University where classes will be held. Academic sessions take place at the university’s facilities, giving students an authentic experience of academic life in Japan. The central location offers easy access to Tokyo’s most famous districts, landmarks, and cultural sites.

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🏛️ Tokyo Engineering Summer School (Ages 15–18)

Experience an unforgettable academic and cultural journey in one of the world’s most innovative cities — Tokyo, Japan. This pre-university engineering programme is designed for students aged 15–18 with a passion for problem-solving, design, and the future of technology. Over two weeks, you'll explore key areas in engineering including mechanical, electrical, civil, and AI-focused disciplines while living and studying in the vibrant city of Tokyo.

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👩‍🔬 Programme Overview

The Tokyo Engineering Summer School combines academic enrichment with hands-on experience. Designed for future engineers, the course provides an exciting blend of theory and application through:

• 🛠️ Mechanical and Structural Engineering: Learn about forces, materials, and motion through interactive projects.

• ⚙️ Electrical and AI Engineering: Dive into circuits, robotics, and how AI is reshaping engineering.

• 🧠 Problem-Based Learning: Take on real-world engineering challenges in team-based workshops.

• 💡 Innovation & Design: Collaborate on a final design challenge, showcasing your solution to a pressing global issue.

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🧠 Academic Insights

Students will:

• Understand the core disciplines of engineering and how they intersect with emerging technology.

• Explore how innovation drives change in urban infrastructure, robotics, transportation, and more.

• Gain exposure to university-level content through seminars and practical sessions.

• Participate in collaborative design thinking projects, sharpening communication, creativity, and analytical thinking.

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🧑‍🏫 Sample Tutors & Guest Speakers

Learn from world-class academics and industry experts who bring real insight into the engineering field:

• Dr. Robail – A Postdoctoral Research Assistant at the Biomedical Image Analysis Group, University of Oxford. His expertise lies in biomedical image analysis, computer vision, and computational machine learning applications in healthcare.

• Pramit – A DPhil (PhD) participant in the Department of Engineering Science at Christ Church College, University of Oxford. He specializes in advanced systems and engineering design, and brings his cutting-edge research into the classroom.

🎤 Guest Speaker from Past Sessions:

• Allister Frost – Microsoft’s first Head of Digital Marketing Strategy, now a business transformation manager, advisor, and motivational speaker. He has worked with organisations such as Vodafone, sharing insights on innovation, leadership, and digital transformation.

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📍 Cultural & Social Highlights

Being in Tokyo offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture:

• 🏙 Visit world-renowned landmarks like the Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and the Meiji Shrine.

• 🍱 Enjoy local cuisine, tech hubs, and anime districts on guided excursions.

• 🎌 Explore Japanese innovation with visits to robotics labs or engineering-focused institutions (where possible).

• 🤝 Build friendships and collaborate with peers from around the world through social activities and team projects.

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A Day in the Life – Tokyo Career Insights

• 8:00–9:30 – Start the day with a relaxed breakfast alongside peers from around the world.

• 9:30–11:30 – Dive into a Project-Based Session, working in teams on real-world challenges related to your career pathway.

• 11:30–11:45 – Take a short morning break to refresh.

• 11:45–12:45 – Join a Career Skills workshop to build essential professional abilities such as communication, critical thinking, and leadership.

• 12:45–14:00 – Enjoy lunch and social time with fellow students.

• 14:00–16:00 – Take part in an Expert Workshop, meet 1:1 with a tutor, or continue developing your group project.

• 16:00–17:00 – Use this free time to explore the city with friends, unwind, or study.

• 17:00–19:00 – Share stories and relax during dinner, often held at exciting venues like the DAWN Avatar Robot Café.

• 19:30–21:00 – Evening activities vary and could include a guest speaker, arcade night, baseball game, or a visit to Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, or karaoke!

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🎓 Graduation & Final Showcase

At the end of the programme, students present their final engineering design challenge at a showcase attended by peers and faculty. This is followed by a formal graduation ceremony, where students receive their academic certificate and celebrate their achievements.

Weekend Excursions:

One day is dedicated to a cultural tour, taking students to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts for an opportunity to wander through traditional markets and visit the iconic Sensō-ji Temple. Students will also be able to take part in an immersive experience exploring the discipline of the samurai and ninja tradition.

Another excursion offers students an enriching glimpse into Tokyo’s dynamic blend of tradition and trendsetting youth culture. Begin the day with a serene visit to the iconic Meiji Shrine, a peaceful Shinto sanctuary nestled in a lush forested area. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a beloved green space where locals gather to relax, perform, and play. The tour will finish off with a vibrant shift by visiting Harajuku, Tokyo’s fashion-forward district, where students can explore quirky boutiques, sample local street food, and experience the unique energy of one of Japan’s most eclectic neighborhoods. This tour strikes the perfect balance between cultural immersion and free-spirited exploration.

Some activities are optional, so students will also have free time to explore Tokyo on their own and visit the attractions that interest them most. Whether you're stepping into the past or soaring above the skyline, your weekend in Tokyo promises excitement, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

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✈️ What’s Included

• Accommodation and half board (breakfast and dinner, tuition, excursions)

• 24/7 pastoral and residential support

• Daily engineering lessons, workshops, and supervised activities

• Local excursions and weekend city exploration

• Guest lectures and academic mentoring

• Graduation ceremony and academic report