Dare To Be is a two-week residential program in the UK that offers a combination of special forces-inspired training and finishing school-style etiquette education. Our mission is to provide a transformative experience for students between high school and college, equipping them with essential skills to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Dare To Be is designed for ambitious and motivated students aged 15-17 who are about to begin their college journey. Our program is tailored for individuals seeking personal growth, unique experiences, and a chance to develop a strong foundation for success in higher education and beyond. We are unashamedly selective in our application process, our program is intended to take the highest performing students, and to help them to make the most of their talents.

Dare To Be’s curriculum is divided into two parts.

The ‘hills’ week focuses on resilience, awareness, and confidence-building, including survival training and foraging.

The ‘house’ week is at a country house and works on social and societal skills. Participants will engage in activities such as self-defence, cyber-security, negotiation, social etiquette, dress and style sessions, and more.

In each case, all led by experienced instructors and British special forces operatives.

Dare To Be 2023 will take place in mid-late August, with specific dates to be announced. Please stay tuned for updates on our website and social media channels.

The cost of Dare To Be is $12,000 fully inclusive for the full two-week experience. This fee covers accommodations, meals, activities, and instruction, but excludes travel to and from London.

We are seeking applicants who demonstrate a strong desire for personal growth, a willingness to challenge themselves, and a commitment to making the most of their college experience. Ideal candidates are self-motivated, resilient, and eager to learn new skills. The application process includes an interview, and both parents and students are required to write a paragraph on why they want to participate in the program. Applicants should also provide a list of programs attended in the last three years and be prepared to answer questions about their experiences away from home, school, and personal achievements.

Each day at Dare To Be is designed to provide a mix of engaging activities, educational sessions, and personal development opportunities. Mornings typically begin with breakfast, followed by a half-day activity or workshop. After lunch, participants engage in another half-day activity or session. Evenings are reserved for relaxation, reflection, and socializing with fellow campers. The specific schedule may vary depending on the day and whether participants are in the 'Hills' or 'House' phase of the program.

During the 'Hills' phase, participants will stay in army barracks style accommodation, experiencing a rugged, authentic special forces environment - with 1 night camping weather permitting. In the 'House' phase, participants will reside in a luxurious country house, offering comfortable accommodations and modern amenities. Both locations provide clean, safe, and comfortable living arrangements with separate sleeping quarters for male and female participants. Dining facilities serve nutritious and delicious meals, and recreational spaces are available for relaxation and socializing.

Dare To Be prioritizes the safety and well-being of all participants. Our experienced staff and instructors are trained to maintain a secure and supportive environment, with strict adherence to established safety protocols. Regular health and wellness check-ins are conducted to monitor participants' well-being. Additionally, our program has a no-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol, and we expect all participants to adhere to our code of conduct.

There are no specific prerequisites or qualifications required to attend Dare To Be. However, we do seek applicants who demonstrate a strong desire for personal growth, a willingness to challenge themselves, and a commitment to making the most of their college experience. Previous experience in outdoor or team-building activities can be beneficial but is not required.

The application process for Dare To Be includes completing an online application form, submitting a paragraph from both the parent and the student on why they want to participate in the program, and providing a list of programs attended in the last three years. Applicants may also be asked to answer questions about their experiences away from home, school, and personal achievements. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview as part of the final selection process.

Currently, Dare To Be does not offer scholarships or financial assistance. We encourage interested applicants to explore external funding opportunities or sponsorships to help cover the cost of the program.

Dare To Be is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all participants. We accommodate special needs and dietary restrictions to the best of our ability. Please inform us of any specific requirements during the application process so we can make the necessary arrangements and ensure a positive experience for the participant.