Apple in California
A unique leadership opportunity with Apple Education
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Trust leaders rarely have the opportunity to learn directly from high-performing organisations outside education, yet such insights can be transformative. Through our collaboration with Apple Education, we are able to offer trust leaders an opportunity to explore their trust’s strategic vision through the lens of Apple’s culture and values.
From 17 to 20 November 2025, a small group of trust leaders will travel to Apple Park in Cupertino, Calfornia, Apple’s world-renowned headquarters, for an immersive visit that will provide rare insights into how Apple’s values and intentional design drive high performance. The comprehensive four-day programme will allow participants to connect with senior Apple leaders and reflect on their own trust’s culture and leadership.
Participants will:
- Engage with cutting-edge thought leadership on high-performing organisations
- Reflect deeply on their own trust’s culture, strategy, and leadership
- Explore approaches to innovation
- Connect directly with senior Apple leaders and build dynamic, high-impact networks
This experience offers a first-hand view of leadership practices and innovation. It is designed to spark new thinking, strengthen leadership, and inform lasting improvement across school trusts.
The programme, including accommodation and most meals, is fully funded by Apple and free of charge. However, attendees will be responsible for booking and paying for their own international travel, as well as any additional accommodation required outside the official programme dates. Further useful information can be found in the frequently asked questions section below.
Explore the programme
General information
When and where will the programme take place?
The programme runs for four days from Monday 17 November 2025 to Thursday 20 November 2025. It will take place at Apple Park, the corporate headquarters of Apple, located in Cupertino, California, USA.
Travel and logistics
When should I plan to arrive and depart?
Apple recommends arriving on Saturday 15 November in order to recover from travel and be ready for the programme’s start on Monday 17 November. The programme concludes late afternoon on Thursday 20 November. Return travel should be scheduled for after this time. Should you wish to extend your stay in the USA, please ensure any personal arrangements do not conflict with programme participation. All additional costs incurred are your responsibility.
Entry requirements and official travel advice
To enter the USA you must have either a Visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). UK Citizens can usually travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet entry requirements.
We strongly advise all attendees consult the latest travel advice for the USA issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) before, and during, your trip. This comprehensive resource provides essential information on entry requirements, safety and security, health, and local laws.
Non-UK citizens or those not eligible for the US Visa Waiver Programme must ensure they obtain the appropriate visa to travel to the United States for the duration of the programme.
Travel and medical insurance
It is essential that all attendees arrange comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the duration of their trip.
Is there a dress code?
The dress code is smart casual for the programme sessions and evenings. Weather in Cupertino in November is typically mild to cool (10°-18°C) so please pack accordingly. The programme will also involve walking around campus so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Will there be any free time or optional activities?
Attendees will have the opportunity for some free time which is built into the programme. Any extra-curricular activities arranged by Apple will be entirely optional, with no expectation of attendance.
Who will attend from CST
A senior representative from the Confederation of School Trusts will attend the Apple Leadership Programme to support you throughout the visit. This individual will be a key point of contact, helping to facilitate the experience and ensure a smooth and productive trip.
Costs
Which costs are covered?
The programme itself is free of charge to attend. Four nights’ hotel accommodation (for the evenings of Sunday 16 to Wednesday 19 November), breakfast and daytime meals, and transport between the hotel and Apple Park are all covered by Apple.
Which costs are not covered?
Attendees are responsible for booking and paying for their own international travel, additional hotel accommodation, some evening meals, travel/medical insurance, and any incidental hotel expenses at the hotel.
Data and disclaimer
How will CST/Apple use my personal data related to this trip?
Personal data collected for the purpose of your application and participation in this Apple Leadership Programme will be handled in accordance with CST’s privacy policy and Apple’s privacy policy.
Disclaimer
This programme is organised and led by Apple Inc. The Confederation of School Trusts is supporting the promotion and coordination of UK participation but is not responsible for the organisation, delivery, or content of the programme. CST accepts no liability for any aspect of the trip, including but not limited to travel, accommodation, programme activities, or personal arrangements made by attendees.
