First cohort of Laidlaw Scholars begin their programme at King’s

The Laidlaw Scholars Programme is a fully funded, 18-month programme for undergraduate students. It combines rigorous academic research, international experiences, and leadership development, with the aim of cultivating next-generation ethical leaders, in all sectors and across the world.

The new cohort of 25 Laidlaw scholars come from 15 Cambridge colleges where they are studying for 13 different degree subjects. Among them are three King’s students: Freddie Fineman (English), Leni Klocker (Human, Social, and Political Sciences) and Lysandra Han (Psychological and Behavioural Sciences).

The Laidlaw Scholars have begun their leadership training, attending a full-day programme at King’s in April. Sessions were delivered by Rach Maggs, Futures Tutor at King’s, and the King's E-Lab’s Research Associates, as well as guest speaker Hayat Sindi. The scholars have also enjoyed a Lego ‘Serious Play’ session and a stress-management workshop.

This summer the Laidlaw Scholars will be participating in six-week voluntary ‘Leadership in Action’ placements with local charities and community organisations in the Cambridge area. The Leadership in Action placement is an immersive project intended to take learning beyond the classroom, translating theory into real world impact. Scholars are encouraged to foster meaningful relationships with communities and organisations, learning through service while prioritising ethical leadership and mutual respect.

Laidlaw Scholar Freddie Fineman says:

I am most excited to be given the opportunity to help support and learn from those working to create lasting change within the local Cambridge community as part of the Leadership in Action project this summer, as this is paramount to continue limiting the so-called ‘town and gown’ divide.

Sophie Harbour, Executive Director of the King’s E-Lab and Fellow, adds:

The Laidlaw Programme is a brilliant chance for undergraduate students who are keen to problem solve and passionate about social change to learn more about local Cambridge initiatives that address some of the most challenging social and environmental problems that we face - these ‘learning by doing’ experiences are a great way for students to see how to enact their values and gain new skills in project management, teamwork, and civic engagement.

Next year the Laidlaw Scholars will continue their leadership training, as well as undertake international, interdisciplinary research projects and attend the annual Laidlaw Scholars conference.