In 2024 the Global Opportunities team organised the University of Nottingham’s first-ever sustainable summer school. Funded by generous donations from alumni, this innovative programme aimed to address two challenges facing the study abroad sector: the environmental impact of travel and the inclusion of students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Students at the Burgundy Summer School.

Hosted by Burgundy School of Business (BSB), a group of 18 students travelled to France via Eurostar, making it the university’s most sustainable study abroad opportunity. The students participating in the programme were selected on the strength of their applications and were from a range of academic backgrounds.

The two-week academic programme focussed on the topics of entrepreneurship and sustainability. The group spent one week at the BSB campus in Lyon followed by a week spent at the Dijon campus. Students took part in academic lectures, industry visits and cultural activities in the local area. Programme fees, travel from London to the BSB campuses, accommodation and most meals were funded by your support, ensuring students didn’t have to worry about finding the money required - making this summer school truly sustainable and accessible to all.

“As someone on a core bursary, this trip was a life-changing experience. I have made so many friends who have similar backgrounds to me and we all enjoyed the trip so much,” described second-year Economics student Emma Gandy.

“The sessions on entrepreneurship really built my confidence, and the sustainability lessons were insightful into our changing environment and what we can do to help the planet. As someone who studies Economics, the summer school was inspiring educationally. I am also taking a French optional module which I have been inspired to start practising for! I hope to stay in contact with the people I met on the trip and continue learning about sustainability. The trip was an experience I will never forget, and I cannot thank those who made it possible enough.”

Students were asked to rate their own skills and competencies in pre- and post-programme surveys. The students’ self-assessment highlighted that the programme was successful in helping the students develop key life skills and transferable skills which will aide them in the workplace.

This sentiment was shared by third-year Economics student Arnav Patel: “Being part of this program has transformed me. It has boosted my confidence, opened my mind to new perspectives in both entrepreneurship and sustainability, and ignited a passion for entrepreneurship which I am excited to find out more about. I feel more prepared than ever to excel in my studies and pursue my career goals. Thank you again for believing in me. Your support has been instrumental in my growth, and I am truly humbled by your generosity.”