Foundations for Success

Junior Thinkers Conference 2025

Inspiring Minds, Shaping Futures: Age 11-14
Curiosity Conversation and Change.
2025
AU/UK

About

Junior Thinkers Conference 2025

We are delighted to announce the AU & NZ Junior Thinkers Conferences for 2025! These inspiring events are designed for curious and gifted students to explore thought-provoking ideas across philosophy, science, and ethics, sparking ambition and a lifelong love of learning through meaningful discussions with their peers. The conference promotes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to think outside the box by engaging with the world of concepts and ideas.

Why Attend?

The Junior Thinkers Conference is a unique opportunity for students to step beyond the classroom and engage with big ideas that challenge their perspectives and inspire intellectual curiosity. By attending, students will:

Gain valuable insights from expert speakers across various fields.
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Build confidence in their ability to tackle complex issues and take responsibility for their own learning.

As one student from last year’s event reflected: “I left the conference feeling ready to take charge of my education and explore new ideas on my own.” Another student shared, “The conference taught me that learning doesn’t stop when you leave the classroom—it’s a lifelong journey.”

These events are designed to empower students to become independent thinkers, equipping them with the tools to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of knowledge and ideas.

Contact Tony at [email protected] for more details.

Download Brochure
We thoroughly enjoyed all the sessions, particularly the interactive discussions and the challenging yet engaging content. The topics pushed us to think in new ways and tackle complex ideas with confidence. Special credit must go to Julie Arliss, whose exceptional communication skills and passion for teaching made the event truly memorable. Her ability to break down difficult concepts and engage the audience left us inspired and ready to take responsibility for our own learning.

Student Feedback

The speaker made me realise how important it is to ask the big questions and to never stop being curious.

It was amazing to see how philosophy connects to science and ethics. It made me rethink how I approach problems in everyday life.

I loved the variety of topics. The conference opened my mind to new ideas and made me excited to keep learning.

The discussions made me feel more confident in expressing my own thoughts and listening to others with different views.

This event was a game-changer for me. It taught me to take ownership of my learning and to challenge myself.

I walked away from the conference with a new passion for learning and exploring ideas on my own.

Programme

Arrival

9:00

Welcome

9:15

Philosophy Session: "The Big Questions"

9:30
Explore fundamental philosophical questions such as “What is truth?” and “What makes a good life?” This session will encourage students to think deeply about the world around them and understand how philosophical insight can challenge assumptions, inspire change and reshape society.

Break

10:15

Community of Inquiry: "Freedom of Speech"

10:30
This interactive session will invite students to engage in a structured discussion on one of the most debated topics of our time: freedom of speech. A community of inquiry is a friendly, collaborative conversation where students work together to reach a set of well-considered ideas. The goal is to help one another think creatively and critically, rather than score points or win arguments. The focus is on student-led discussion.

Lunch

12:00

Science Session: The Science of Time.

12:45
What is time? Does Time really exist? Why does time seem to move in one direction? Is time travel scientifically possible? Why does time seem to pass faster or slower in different circumstances?

Break

13:30

Debate: Does Love Conquer All?

13:35
Students will explore the timeless question of whether love has the power to overcome all obstacles or whether there are limits to its power. Is love always a transformative force that builds bridges and generates positive change or if misused, can it cause harm? All views are welcome, including historical, theological, philosophical and personal perspectives.

Closing Comments

14:30

Speakers

Julie Arliss

Julie Arliss

Julie Arliss is an outstanding Gifted Educator, nurturing brilliance through a holistic approach. At the heart of Julie Arliss’ philosophy lies a deep commitment to unlocking the unique potential within every gifted student. She believes that gifted education is not just about cultivating academic excellence but also fostering holistic development, instilling a love for lifelong learning, and nurturing the well-being of each student. Thriving Minds provides talented students with the tools necessary to cultivate critical thinking, analyse complex problems, and innovate. This philosophy encourages students to question the status quo, explore new ideas, and develop solutions to real-world challenges. In placing great value on mentorship and guidance students benefit from the wisdom and expertise of educators who not only teach but also inspire and support them on their educational journey. Through steadfast commitment to this philosophy, numerous more able and ambitious students have not only achieved academic excellence but have also grown into compassionate, innovative and socially conscious individuals. Julie Arliss’ legacy extends far beyond the conference platform, influencing the lives of students who carry these values with them throughout their lives.

For almost three decades Julie has collaborated with some of the greatest living thinkers delivering outstanding programmes for more able students across the UK and Australasia.

Conference Dates

Registration

Booking Details

Booking Process: All bookings must be made by schools, not by individual participants. To secure your place, please fill in the booking form and select your preferred venue. You will have the option to pay online (recommended) or request an invoice.

Payment Information: The cost is $55 per student, with one free staff place provided for every group of 12 students.

Important Information:

Students should attend in school uniform.
Students and staff need to bring their own refreshments and drinks for the day.
Bookings are not guaranteed until payment is received. If payment has not been made, we reserve the right to offer the places to other students on the waiting list.

Event Timings: Please note that event timings may vary slightly. Full details will be provided closer to the date of the event.

We look forward to welcoming your students to this inspiring event!

Registration $55

Registration includes access to all conference sessions and networking

School Booking

Booking Information for Schools:
We understand that school administrative processes can take time, so to avoid missing out, you are welcome to pencil in your numbers by contacting Tony at [email protected]. Our events fill quickly, so we recommend reserving your spots as early as possible.

For bookings for smaller numbers please address requests to [email protected]

CPD Booking

Professional Development for Teachers:
Teachers who are unable to bring students but would like to attend for professional development are warmly invited to join the event. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable insights and access resources to enrich your teaching. Please note that teachers attending for professional development pay the professional development rate of $225. To book your place, please complete the form below or contact Tony at [email protected].

Contact & Support

Need help deciding?
📧 [email protected]
📞 +44 7979 524277

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