Summer University

The New Direction Summer University returns to France from 29 June to 3 July! For the second year running, we are pleased to announce that our flagship summer programme will take place in the beautiful French Chateau in the countryside, outside of Paris. We are pleased to be partnered with ISSEP for this programme.

Conservative students and young people from across the continent will once again have a chance to engage with the ideas that underpin our shared Western civilisation, and make our movement so special. 

Our Summer University is our flagship event for current students, recent graduates, and young professionals from the ages of 18-35, with an aim at providing a foundational level understanding of what it means to be a conservative.

This year the theme is Conservatism Through History: Turning Ideas Into Reality – where we will explore how the conservative movement has addressed some of histories greatest challenges. From industrialisation to revolution, global conflicts to globalisation, we’ll explore how the conservative movement has continued to shape the world. 

As a part of our Summer University, you’ll have the chance to hear lectures from leading voices from the centre-right – academics, politicians, and other thought leaders – as well as a chance to really engage with the ideas during workshops.

If you’d like to be part of this year’s Summer University – fill in the application on the following link by FRIDAY 29 MAY at MIDDAY  

Your application should include the following:

• A CV;
• A cover letter outlining why you think you should come;
• A personal statement video (max. 1min). 

New Direction will assess candidates on the basis of the strength of their motivational letter, their academic aptitude, their experience of international study, regional representation, and their commitment to further engage with the wider conservative ecosystem. All candidates are expected to be fluent in English (C1 level). Participants of previous New Direction Summer University’s are welcome to apply again. 

Participation will be €100, covering full weeks accommodation in a shared room, meals, and transportation.

Participants apply knowing that they will commit themselves to take part in the conference for the full week. 

You can watch the highlights from last years Summer University here - and we’ll see you in France!