About the Summit
The Cambridge Student Summit brings together students from across the city for a free, student‑centred day focused on issues shaping Cambridge. Students from both universities and local sixth‑form colleges will join local leaders and community organisations to discuss the city, its challenges and its future.
What to expect
The programme includes panel discussions, student‑led conversations and interactive sessions. These offer opportunities to engage directly with people involved in local decision‑making, hear a range of perspectives, build skills in social action, and contribute your own experiences and views. The summit is designed as a space for exchange, connection and reflection, with a focus on how students participate in the life of the city.
The Cambridge Student Summit is organised in collaboration with Cambridge SU, the University of Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin University, and Long Road Sixth Form College.
Practical information
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The summit is free to attend
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Lunch and refreshments provided
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Places are limited; pre‑booking is required
Reserve your spot here!
Draft programme
Please note: This is a draft programme and may be subject to change. A final programme will be shared closer to the event.
Welcome
An introduction to the day, outlining the purpose of the event and how participants can get the most from taking part.
Constructive conversations
See cross‑party debate in action as two political representatives demonstrate how to challenge ideas respectfully and constructively. This session explores how disagreement can build understanding, strengthen democratic dialogue, and help you navigate difficult conversations with confidence.
Inside the Council Chamber
Take a look inside the Council Chamber to discover where debates happen, decisions are made, and students and residents can have a voice in shaping the city.
Connecting across communities
This interactive session invites you to explore the communities you’re part of and what matters most to you. Through short, one‑to‑one conversations, you’ll share experiences, discuss what you care about, and discover areas of common interest.
Views from the City: panel discussion
Cambridge is entering an unprecedented period of transformation, socially, economically and physically. What does this mean for the city and its residents, including the young people already helping to shape its civic life?
Hear insights from a panel on Cambridge’s future, including how it can grow in inclusive, sustainable and community‑focused ways, with time for audience questions.
Lunch
An opportunity to continue informal conversations and connect with other participants.
Skills for Civic Action: Students shaping Cambridge
Build practical skills in community organising and campaigning, then put them into action. In this session you’ll help set the agenda, explore the issues that matter most to you, and work collaboratively to shape ideas for Cambridge’s future, defining priorities and learning tools for effective civic action.
Students shaping Cambridge: thematic discussions
Discussion‑based workshops focusing on key issues currently shaping life in Cambridge. You’ll engage directly with civic leaders, community representatives and people who help shape local decisions.
Participants will be invited to choose from thematic topics including:
- Transport, growth and the Local Plan
- A greener future for Cambridge
- Homelessness in Cambridge
Reflections and next steps
A chance to reflect together on the themes and ideas that have emerged throughout the day, and to hear about ways to stay connected and continue shaping conversations about Cambridge’s future.