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The UWC Short Course Development Initiative (SCDI) was launched in 2019 to expand the reach and accessibility of UWC short courses worldwide.
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.
Led by Faima Ramirez Hirschauer, General SCDI Coordinator, and supported by Sylvia Wirtjes, Academic Coordinator at UWC International, the SCDI provides strategic guidance and hands-on 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
60%
of participants receive financial support each year
The SCDI has developed its own UWC short course strategy, aligned with and building on the short course focus of UWC strategy 2030. This framework supports long-term growth and enables short courses to reach more participants worldwide – advancing UWC’s mission of peace and sustainability. This strategy provides a framework for growth and impact, enabling UWC short courses to reach more participants globally and advance UWC’s mission of peace and sustainability.
Information for organisers and facilitators
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:
- Visit the pre-endorsement resource platform for detailed guidance
- Send your idea to [email protected] with the worksheet provided
- 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.
For facilitators
Facilitators lead participants through powerful learning experiences. A good team brings together diverse skills, knowledge and backgrounds.
How to get started:
- Reach out to organisers of upcoming short courses to explore opportunities
- 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.
Stay connected
- Follow UWC International on Instagram and Facebook for opportunities
- Check the UWC jobs & opportunities page for calls for facilitators
- If you are affiliated with UWC, join the UWC Hub to find new short course roles and stay updated
- Connect through the UWC short courses network on Facebook to share ideas and find upcoming calls
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.
Apply Now