London Interdisciplinary School secures £10M investment to advance interdisciplinary learning

The London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), a new institution in UK higher education, has secured over £10 million in new investments from notable entities, including Émlyon Business School, the Canadian Public Pension Fund (CPP), and Galileo Global Education. 

These funds complement earlier investments from the founders of companies such as H&M and Innocent, raising the total capital to £24 million. This financial support underscores the school’s focus on interdisciplinary learning, an approach increasingly recognised for its relevance to modern career paths.

Recent studies conducted by LIS, such as the "Citizen Student" report, indicate that many Gen Z and Millennials feel their educational experiences have not adequately prepared them for contemporary careers. 

According to the school's findings, 37% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennials expressed dissatisfaction with their preparedness.

Émlyon Business School, established in 1872 and recently certified as a B-Corp, has made a strategic investment in LIS. This partnership aims to enrich LIS's educational model, which integrates various disciplines to address complex societal issues, including ethics, culture, and the impact of artificial intelligence.

The data reveals that 47% of Gen Z students are interested in pursuing degrees that positively impact society. LIS’s curriculum, which blends arts, humanities, and STEM fields, is designed to develop graduates capable of addressing complex global challenges.

The new funding round is part of a broader international collaboration. Previous investments include support from the British Government through the Future Fund launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 LIS maintains significant ties with both the British and French governments, enhancing its potential for unique international influence.

LIS plans to use the new funds to expand its educational offerings and increase its financial stability. The school's governance structure includes an independent board with representatives from Émlyon and Galileo, ensuring a balanced approach to international cooperation and technological integration.