Program Overview

Introduction to the Laidlaw Leadership and Research Programme

The Laidlaw Leadership and Research Programme is a prestigious initiative designed for high-achieving undergraduate students. This program offers a unique opportunity for students to develop their leadership skills, undertake research projects, and engage in community service.

Programme Structure

The programme spans two years, commencing in the second term of the first year and concluding in the first term of the third year. The main elements of the programme include:

• Leadership Training (I): Six days of core leadership training, comprising weekend activities with the UCL cohort.
• Leadership Training (II): Ethical leadership training, involving online seminars and group exercises with scholars from participating universities.
• Six-week research project in the first summer.
• Six-week "Leadership in Action" project in the second summer.
• Networking and learning events, including attendance at the Laidlaw Scholars' Conference.

Leadership Training

The leadership training component is a critical aspect of the programme, focusing on developing key leadership skills. This includes:

Leadership Training I: Core Training

Taught over three weekends, this programme introduces students to fundamental concepts in leadership, such as:

• Understanding oneself as a leader.
• Leading teams and adapting leadership styles.
• Ethical leadership principles.

Leadership Training II: Ethical Leadership

This online component, conducted in collaboration with the Oxford Character Project, explores different elements of character related to leadership. It comprises six monthly seminars and group exercises, providing a comprehensive understanding of ethical leadership.

Summer Projects

Research Project: Summer One

Students undertake an independent six-week research project under the supervision of academic staff. This project can be either:

• Joining an academic research team from the projects list.
• Proposing an individual summer project topic, with an agreed-upon academic supervisor.

Leadership in Action Project: Summer Two

This project allows students to apply their leadership skills in real-world settings, focusing on community service and personal development. Projects can take the form of:

• Leadership Expeditions.
• Collaborations with not-for-profit organizations.
• Practical applications of research findings.

Eligibility and Funding

The programme is open to first-year undergraduate students at UCL, with eligibility criteria including:

• Being a current first-year home, EU, or overseas undergraduate student.
• Not being an affiliate student.
• Meeting the essential criteria outlined for each project.

Terms and Conditions

By applying to the programme, students agree to abide by the terms and conditions, which include:

• Attending mandatory development events.
• Undertaking the required work for the summer projects.
• Responding to communication from programme coordinators.
• Producing project outputs to a satisfactory standard.

Conclusion

The Laidlaw Leadership and Research Programme offers a unique and enriching experience for undergraduate students, combining leadership development, research, and community engagement. With its comprehensive structure and emphasis on ethical leadership, this programme is designed to foster the next generation of leaders.