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Catalyst by Winchester College
CATALYST offers innovative online enrichment courses for students aged 10 to 17 during school holidays.
The Catalyst Summer Programme offers an academically rigorous, interactive, and discussion-led experience taught by Winchester College teachers. Over the summer during 1 week programmew, students immerse themselves in subjects from science and philosophy to artificial intelligence and ethics. Alongside these modules, they work on a capstone project that develops creativity, problem-solving, and the confidence to communicate ideas with purpose.
How It Works
The programme follows a structured arc. Each day blends interactive workshops, Socratic discussion, and collaborative challenges, encouraging students to question, debate, and apply their ideas in real-world contexts. The journey culminates in a capstone project presentation, where students showcase their thinking, teamwork, and communication.
The Academic Experience
Taught in small groups, every session is designed to spark curiosity and develop confidence. Lessons are interactive and exploratory, moving far beyond lecture-style delivery. Students learn to test ideas, refine arguments, and approach complex problems from multiple perspectives.
In essence, CATALYST embodies Winchester College's ethos: a fusion of tradition and contemporary thinking, equipping students to tackle the demands and challenges of the modern world.
Course in action
Modular Overview
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Technology & Ethics: Explore the promises and risks of emerging technologies, from AI to biotechnology. Draft and negotiate your own Ethical Charter on AI Governance.
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Language & AI: Discover how humans and machines use language, and where the limits lie. Take part in a live Turing Test, including a bespoke Beat the Machine challenge.
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Philosophy of Self: Debate questions of identity, personhood, and what it means to be human. Explore competing definitions of selfhood across psychology, culture, and law.
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Critical Challenges: Take part in structured debates, conundrums, and reflective exercises designed to stretch reasoning and imagination. Practise position-taking, defending arguments, and testing your ideas against others.
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Science & Patterns: Investigate illusions, cognitive biases, and natural laws, learning how to separate truth from perception. Trace the evolution of scientific thought, from Aristotle to modern physics.
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Economics & Prosperity: Analyse global indicators, questioning what prosperity really means for societies. Explore the contrasts between wealth, wellbeing, and inequality through interactive games and data challenges.
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Heritage & Culture: Consider how cultural legacies shape value and identity in a changing world. Explore the tension between protecting tangible heritage and negotiating the place of intangible traditions.
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Creative Problem-Solving: Develop and test bold solutions to real-world issues, preparing to present them persuasively. Practise persuasive communication, public speaking, and team presentation.
CATALYST Summer 2026 Programmes
We have an amazing summer ahead with 4 weeks of programmes cover AI, Philosophy, Economics and Science! Student all complete a change programme alongside their programme in addition to the topics listed in the course title.
UK Courses take place BST 9am → 2pm
Foundations: AI & Philosophy
July 20th → July 24th
Foundations: AI Science & Economics
July 27th → July 31st
Horizons: AI & Philosophy
August 3rd → August 7th
Foundations: AI Science & Philosophy
August 10th → August 14th
USA Catalyst: AI & Philosophy
June 8th → June 12th
USA Course takes place BST 4pm→9pm
Capstone Project
The Capstone is the heart of the Catalyst Summer Programme: a chance for each student to step beyond the classroom and take on a challenge that matters to them. Over the week, they investigate a real-world issue, analyse it from multiple perspectives, and design an imaginative, workable solution. Guided by Winchester teachers, students learn to think critically, act creatively, and communicate persuasively. The programme culminates in a final presentation, where each student showcases not only their project but also the intellectual curiosity, independence, and leadership they have developed, a genuine opportunity to shape ideas that could effect change far beyond the course.
Testimonials
Emma
Maya
Michael
Martha
Shakir
Parent
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CATALYST part of Winchester College?
Yes, CATALYST is part of Winchester College. Their courses are built on the College’s 600-year tradition of educational excellence, bringing its renowned enrichment and extracurricular expertise to students worldwide through online learning.
What courses do you offer?
CATALYST offers courses in different formats and for varying age groups:
- Foundations (ages 10–13) and Horizons (ages 14–17): Intensive one-week courses held during half-term or summer. These introduce advanced topics like AI and ethical dilemmas, culminating in a Capstone Project.
What are CATALYST courses like?
Courses are interactive and dynamic. Students engage in discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on projects. A typical day balances collaboration, independent focus, and time to recharge. Activities include ethical debates, real-world problem-solving, and skill-building exercises. Check out their Sample Timetable for more insights.
How hard are CATALYST courses?
CATALYST courses are both challenging and fun! Designed to push students out of their comfort zones, they develop confidence and critical skills. Foundations and Horizons courses are selective, ensuring students are matched to the appropriate level of rigour.
For more information, please visit the CATALYST by Winchester College website.
What are the outcomes of a CATALYST course?
Upon completing a CATALYST course, students will have developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. They will also have completed a Capstone Project, which can enhance school and university applications.
Who are the educators?
CATALYST courses are taught by experienced educators from Winchester College and other leading institutions. They bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for teaching to create engaging and challenging learning experiences.
What is the Capstone Project?
The Capstone Project is a key component of CATALYST courses. It allows students to apply what they've learned to a real-world challenge, demonstrating their understanding and skills. This project can be a valuable addition to school and university applications.
How do I apply?
To apply for a CATALYST course, students can either have an application completed by UKschools.com or for the family can apply directly via the CATALYST website.