PHP supports almost any style of programming depending on the framework you choose. And that's sometimes a problem and as a consequence is 'that PHP developers often tend to have more of a "quick-and-dirty" mindset and don't really appreciate that kind of code'.
So, can you explain, what is the main difference between 'new-way'-accepted participants and people who even did not apply to Startup School and will be able to watch the videos also?
I guess you have tried Symfony, haven't you?