Short course development initiative

Short course development initiative

The UWC Short Course Development Initiative (SCDI) was launched in 2019 to expand the reach and accessibility of UWC short courses worldwide.
Short course participants posing for photo.

A collaborative effort between UWC International’s Education team and the UWC National Committee of Spain, the initiative plays a key role in ensuring short courses embody UWC’s mission and maintain consistent standards. 

The SCDI is led by Faima Ramirez Hirschauer, General SCDI Coordinator for UWC International and Experiential Education Coordinator for UWC Spain. She is supported by Sylvia Wirtjes, Education Coordinator for Learning and Development at UWC International. The SCDI offers strategic guidance and practical support for UWC short course organisers.

What the SCDI does

  • Course endorsement: Oversees the approval process for all UWC short courses
  • Support and resources: Offers detailed guidance on planning and delivery, including templates and risk management tools
  • Training and networking: Hosts training sessions and creates opportunities for organisers to connect and learn from one another
  • Strategic growth: Builds partnerships to increase the reach and impact of short courses globally

Achievements since 2019

40+

new courses launched across online, hybrid and in-person formats

150

Organisers trained

8,000+

participants

60%

of participants receive financial support each year

The SCDI has developed its own strategy for UWC short courses. It aligns with the short course focus in UWC Strategy 2030 and supports long-term growth. It works alongside the Short Course Skills Framework, which sets out the key skills and learning outcomes. Together these help short courses reach more participants around the world and strengthen UWC’s mission of peace and sustainability.

Read the 2025 UWC short courses Annual Report

Information for organisers and facilitators

Three children enthusiastically dancing

Running a UWC short course means designing, planning and delivering a programme that matches UWC’s mission and values. The UWC Short Course Development Initiative (SCDI) provides resources, training, and mentorship to help organisers maintain high quality and consistency.

Steps to get started:

  1. Visit the pre-endorsement resource platform for detailed guidance.
  2. Send your idea to [email protected] with the worksheet provided.
  3. Complete an endorsement application at least six to nine months before delivery. The SCDI will guide you through logistics, risk management, budgeting and curriculum design. See the endorsement checklist for the minimum requirements for official endorsement.
SCDI resource platform (available to organisers only)

For facilitators

Facilitators lead participants through powerful learning experiences. A good team brings together diverse skills, knowledge and backgrounds. 

Three women in various national dress banging instruments.

How to get started:

  1. Get in touch with organisers of upcoming short courses to explore opportunities.
  2. Join the annual Facilitation Training 101 session held in March or April. This training builds core skills and helps you prepare for in-person or online facilitation.
    • Topics include facilitation skills, non-verbal communication, adapting to different learning styles, debriefs and inclusive dialogue, plus safeguarding through Educare modules.
    • Access Educare modules:
      Complete free safeguarding modules through Educare to strengthen your understanding of protecting and supporting participants. Request access by emailing [email protected] with your full name, email address and the UWC short course you are affiliated with. 
Join the interest list for training, openings and other opportunities in the UWC short courses world

Stay connected 

Questions?

If you have explored the resources and haven’t found the answer, the SCDI will be happy to help.

How to Apply for a UWC short course

Explore this year’s courses and find the one that speaks to you. Check out course themes, locations, and eligibility criteria. Applications typically open in mid-January. Join a growing movement of young people changing the world, one short course at a time.

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