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Self by Design:  Psychology of Self & Future Success

ESF Island School
12 - 14
Psychology

Future success is not defined solely by academic excellence, but by students’ ability to understand themselves, appreciate others, and know how to turn insight into action. This immersive programme guides students on a meaningful journey—from discovering who they are to learning how to collaborate and contribute positively to the world around them.

Students begin by exploring foundational psychological ideas—emotions, strengths, values, and self-concept—through engaging activities and age-appropriate tools. They uncover how people think and feel differently, why misunderstandings occur, and how empathy can transform relationships by deepening connection and trust. 

$5700

Course Highlights & Outcomes:

  • Psychology as a Tool for Lifelong Success

Students learn how psychological principles—from motivation and goal-setting to resilience and emotional regulation—can be applied to real-life challenges and ambitions. By understanding the “science of how we think and grow,” students gain tools to make better decisions, sustain motivation, and build healthy habits. This awareness empowers them to take ownership of their development, turning self-knowledge into a powerful driver for future success in school, work, and life.

  • Strengths-Based Personality Insights

Students explore who they are through age-appropriate psychological assessments (valued HKD 3,500) that highlight how they think, feel, and learn. Rather than labelling or ranking, these tools help students recognise their unique strengths and discover how to use them confidently in everyday life.

  •  Personalised Growth Reports

Each student receives a personalised report that summarises key strengths and growth areas across social, emotional, and learning domains. Reports are designed to support ongoing growth—equipping both students and parents with clear, constructive insights that extend well beyond the programme.

  • Developing Future-Ready Mindsets and Soft Skills

The programme helps students develop the mindsets and soft skills essential for lifelong success. Students learn to understand themselves and others, navigate complex social situations, and adapt to challenges with confidence and empathy—foundations for thriving in school, relationships, and an ever-changing world.

  • Purpose-Driven Project

Students apply their learning to create a project for social good, guided by design thinking principles. These projects translate self-knowledge and empathy into tangible action, showing students how they can make a positive impact in their school and community.

 

*All students must use their own laptops and chargers.
*This is a one-week course. Please view the recommended Summer Academy schedule HERE

Course Instructor

Dr. Rina Lai
Dr. Rina Lai is an educational psychologist, researcher, author, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of SynergisED, a research and innovation lab, and a co-founder of the Cambridge China Education Forum. Dr. Lai holds a PhD in education and psychology from the University of Cambridge, where she also served as an academic supervisor and college associate. Her work spans research, policy, and practice, and she has advised multinational corporations, start-ups, NGOs, and government bodies. She currently serves as a school council member at ESF’s Kennedy School, a Visiting Scholar in the Department of Psychology at the University of Cambridge, and an Honorary Associate at the Centre for Advancement in Inclusive and Special Education at the University of Hong Kong.

Course Dates

Week 6
3 - 7 Aug
$5700

Do you need help?

Send us a message at info@esfexplore.org.hk or call our hotline at 2711 1280. Our team will be in touch promptly.