Menu
Big Ideas for Bright Minds:
A conference for more able and ambitious students
Unleash Your Potential
2024
AU/NZ
Keynote Speakers: Engage with renowned experts who will share their insights on unlocking your potential.
Peer Networking: Connect with gifted students from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and forge lifelong friendships.
Discussions: Participate in thought-provoking discussions on contemporary issues and global challenges.
Critical thinking and Problem solving: Explore new ideas and develop strategies for real-world challenges.
Discover the Foundations of Modern Philosophy: Descartes’ Cogito Ergo Sum
A thought-provoking session that invites you to delve into the profound ideas of René Descartes and his groundbreaking concept of the cogito. Beyond being a mere catchphrase, Descartes’ declaration “I think, therefore I am” represents a revolutionary idea that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of human thought. Understand how Descartes’ Cogito has implications for knowledge, consciousness and reality and continues to shape our thoughts. You will take a deep dive into Radical Doubt, challenging preconceived notions and encouraging a mind-expanding exploration of existential questions. This session is more than an academic endeavor; it’s an invitation to discover the roots of modern philosophical thought and understand how a single idea can shape the very fabric of our understanding.
Join us for a thought-provoking talk tailored for our more able students, as Dr. Andrew Pinsent, a former particle physicist turned Catholic priest, explores the fascinating world of miracles. This session will delve into intricate debates about the nature and existence of miracles, questioning whether they are misunderstood natural phenomena or events that defy scientific explanation.
Dr. Pinsent will challenge you to consider what truly constitutes a miracle and whether such phenomena need to contravene the laws of nature to be deemed genuine. Engage with profound questions that sit at the intersection of science and faith, expanding your understanding of the universe and its mysteries.
Have you ever wondered whether there is anything more to life than this? It’s a question that has intrigued thinkers throughout history and sparked the curiosity of some of the greatest minds. Plato claimed that, ‘an unexamined life is not worth living,’ and with this as our guiding principle the session will chart the map of ideas surrounding this profound question. Students will be invited to reflect on their own beliefs and explore for themselves claims about reincarnation, rebirth, migration of the soul and resurrection. Together, we’ll navigate the scientific and philosophical challenges tied to reports of out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, and the paranormal.
This session is not just about answering questions but empowering students with the tools to explore one of life’s greatest mysteries on their own terms. Join us as we outline the map of ideas related to life after death and encourage you to embark on your own intellectual journey.
For in that sleep of death what dreams may come, When we have shuffled off this mortal coil, Must give us pause.
Hamlet: Act III, scene 1, line 66.
A Debate for More Able and Ambitious Students.
AI represents one of the most rapidly advancing fields of technology. New breakthroughs and applications continually emerge, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The prospect of revolutionary change and disruption generates excitement but, what are the risks? There is a wide ranging, ongoing discussion of the implications of artificial intelligence and, in this debate, we will examine the ethical, societal, economic and technical implications of AI technologies. For critical thinking, a global perspective, interdisciplinary learning, problem solving and future career opportunities this is a not to be missed debate.
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.
Dr. Andrew Pinsent brings a unique blend of expertise in science and theology. With a background as a particle physicist contributing to research at CERN, Dr. Pinsent later transitioned to theology and is now a Catholic priest. As the Research Director of the Ian Ramsey Centre for Science and Religion at the University of Oxford, he bridges the gap between faith and reason. Dr. Pinsent’s distinguished career and interdisciplinary insights make him a leading voice in contemporary debates on miracles and the nature of the universe. His talk promises to provide deep insights and foster meaningful discussion on one of the most profound multidisciplinary questions of existence.
Early Bird Registration (until April 30th 2024): $45
Regular Registration $50
Registration includes access to all conference sessions & networking.
Connect with us on social media using #GiftedStudentConference2024 to stay updated and interact with fellow attendees before the conference
37 Fore Street,
Sidmouth EX10 8AQ,
United Kingdom
73B Pullen Road,
Everton Park QLD 4053,
Australia
Trading Partner
Registration Y286412
