Outside the classroom
Learn more about our student society, international visits, and the Young People in Humanitarianism Conference series.
HCRI Society
The HCRI Society provides a space for students, within the Institute and beyond, interested in humanitarian topics to come together, share ideas and socialise.
It's a great way to get to know like-minded people while digging deeper into the issues you care about.
The society was formed in 2019 and was nominated for the Student Union's New Society of the Year Award, recognising the inclusive, welcoming and fun nature of its activities.
Contact us
International visits
HCRI students have opportunities to participate in international research trips, such as our annual undergraduate visit to India.
India
Undergraduate students in the course unit 'Practical Approaches to Researching Conflict and Disaster (HCRI30111)' typically undertake an educational visit to India in January.
This course unit asks students to think about how we conduct research in conflict/disaster-affected environments, and these conversations tie into a trip to Mumbai, exploring themes around 'Indian humanitarianism', responses to the IDP/refugee problem, and local disaster management - in particular concerning climate change.
Uganda, Isle of Wight, Sicily
Postgraduate students in the course unit 'Researching Responses to Displacement (HCRI60061)' have, in the past, undertaken research visits to Rwanda and Uganda. Future visit locations to be confirmed.
Students on environmental risk modules (HCRI64402, HCRI20042) will have opportunities to conduct fieldwork on the Isle of Wight and Sicily / Aeolian islands. Please contact Dr Martin Parham for information and costs.
Young People in Humanitarianism Conference (YPHC)
These conferences engage secondary school students with issues in disaster management and humanitarian response, primarily through the format of simulation exercises in UK and international contexts.
HCRI students help organise and deliver the YPHCs, for which they are assessed through their participation, organisation and reflection.
This year's simulation (2026) was titled the ‘Great Fire of Manchester’, and explored resilience, disaster response, and simulated challenges during post-disaster aid distribution.
The schools that joined us were Co-op Academy Belle Vue, Dean Trust Ardwick, St Peter’s RC High School, and The Grange School.