Masterclass Programme

A flagship learning programme connecting young people with senior leaders across politics and civil society to deepen understanding, confidence, and networks.

The Patchwork Foundation’s year long Masterclass Programme brings together participants with leading figures from British politics and civil society. These sessions provide exposure to a wide range of lived experiences and professional pathways, offering insight into how individuals engage with and shape public life.

Each Masterclass gives participants the opportunity to ask questions about personal development, career journeys, and the realities of working in politics at the highest level. Sessions are chaired by a participant, who introduces the speaker and provides a brief overview of their work before guiding a structured discussion.

All discussions are held under Chatham House Rule, encouraging open, honest, and respectful dialogue.

In preparation, participants research each speaker in advance to ensure informed and meaningful engagement. On the day, they share key insights and reflections, helping to foster thoughtful discussion both with fellow participants and the Masterclass facilitator.

“It is also the chance to meet like-minded individuals with a strong variety of interests, experiences and backgrounds and forge and build worthwhile and valuable relationships and networks with our fellow Patchworkers.”

Our 2027 Masterclass Programme applications aren’t open yet, they will be opening in mid-October – but you don’t have to keep checking back. Complete the form and we’ll let you know the moment they go live, so you’re ready to apply as soon as they do

Alumni Spotlight

“As a former Patchworker who learnt about the inner sanctums of politics through a Masterclass several years ago, it’s very special to now use some of that knowledge to help guide my journey as a Member of Parliament. Getting involved in a Patchwork Masterclass and a visit to No10 played an important part of me realising that I could have a seat at the table, and that the political world was open to me too. I’m now determined to pay that forward to ensure that the young people of today have the confidence, the knowledge and the insights to be the politicians of tomorrow.”

How to support us

Eligibility requirements for the Masterclass Programme are outlined below.

Aged 18-30 years old
From diverse and underrepresented communities in the UK
Interested in politics, public service, or leadership
Able to show commitment to personal and professional development
Willing to commute to London on occasion, for Masterclass sessions (needs-based financial assistance is available)

Masterclass updates

Reflecting on Debbie Hewitt’s Masterclass

Reflecting on Debbie Hewitt’s Masterclass Ifejuola is a final year undergraduate student at Durham University, where she is studying Combined...

Local Media to Westminster: Insights from Dan Bloom’s Masterclass

Local Media to Westminster: Insights from Dan Bloom’s Masterclass Yasmine is an incoming finalist reading Politics at the University of...

Towards a Fairer World: A Masterclass with Ellie Chowns

Towards a Fairer World: A Masterclass with Ellie Chowns Leo is a Politics and International Relations student at Durham University....