How leadership is integrated into everyday learning at Academic Summer Camps
Unlike traditional leadership courses, our Be a Leader Programme is not just a set of lectures – it’s an immersive experience which includes:
- Daily leadership sessions: Every morning, students focus on a leadership skill, discussing real-life examples and practising through activities.
- Team challenges: Afternoon activities encourage teamwork, creativity and problem-solving, reinforcing leadership lessons.
- Meet the Leader talks: Each week, students attend inspiring talks from guest speakers – CEOs, entrepreneurs and professionals who share their leadership journeys. For example: Helen Lami’s talk to future leaders at Summer Camp, 2024 in London.
- Accredited certificate: At the end of the programme, students receive a CPD (Continuous Professional Development) accredited certificate, which is an excellent addition to university applications and CVs.
Dr Giedre Balcytyte who is our Academic Manager explains: “When students apply for university, they can include their Be a Leader certification in their CVs and personal statements. It’s a concrete way to show their commitment to leadership and self-development.”


Left: Our Academic Manager, Giedre Balcytyte and right: one of our Be a Leader Programme students. Gierdre explains the importance of being a leader in the video below.
Who is the Be a Leader Programme for?
One of the best things about the Be a Leader Programme is that it’s designed for everyone – not just for students who already see themselves as leaders.
- For confident students this programme helps refine their leadership skills, preparing them for bigger challenges.
- For quieter students it provides a safe space to build confidence, develop communication skills and step outside their comfort zones.
- For future university students it strengthens personal statements and CVs, making students stand out in competitive applications.
- For international students It fosters cross-cultural communication and global perspectives, essential for studying and working internationally.
Success Stories: how our Be a Leader Programme transforms students
Many students arrive at Academic Summer unsure of their leadership abilities but they leave with a newfound confidence and mindset.
One student shared: “I used to be shy about speaking in front of people. After the Be a Leader Programme, I feel much more confident expressing my ideas. It has helped me in school and everyday life.”
Another student reflected: “The teamwork challenges were so much fun! I learned how to work with people from different cultures, and it made me realise how important communication is.”
These are just a few examples of how the programme empowers students for life.
Why choose Academic Summer’s Be a Leader Programme?
- It’s hands-on, interactive, and engaging – not just theory.
- It’s internationally recognised – accredited by CPD.
- It boosts university applications – a valuable addition to CVs.
- It’s part of an unforgettable summer experience – learning in a diverse, exciting environment.
Dr Balcytyte sums it up best: “Leadership is about being the best version of yourself – whether in school, work, or personal life. Our Be a Leader Programme helps students discover their strengths and prepare for their futures with confidence.”
Are you ready to be a leader?
If you want to develop leadership skills, boost your confidence, and have an unforgettable summer, the Be a Leader Programme at Academic Summer is the perfect choice. Join us this summer and unlock your leadership potential! Find out more: academiccamp.org

The Clever Fox Journal is the online news section of Academic Summer Camps, inspired by our logo – a wise fox wearing a graduation cap. Just like our summer programmes, The Clever Fox Journal is a place of curiosity, learning and discovery, bringing you the latest updates, insights and stories from our academic camps in the UK and Canada. Stay informed, stay inspired – and think like a clever fox!