Intermediate Stretch & Challenge
2027 Programme: The Philosophy & Science of Time
Bring this unique interdisciplinary experience to your students and your region.
A one-day conference for ambitious students (Years 7–9) exploring the most profound and puzzling questions:
Students don’t just learn about ideas, they learn how to think.
What the day looks like
1. Philosophy Session: The Big Questions
Students explore foundational questions such as:
- What is truth?
- What makes a good life?
They begin to see how philosophical thinking challenges assumptions and reshapes how we understand the world.
2. Community of Inquiry: Freedom of Speech
A structured, student-led discussion where ideas are tested collaboratively.
Students learn to:
- Listen carefully
- Build on others’ ideas
- Think critically without “winning”
This is where confidence and intellectual independence really grow.
3. Science Session: The Science of Time
Students encounter some of the biggest scientific questions:
- Does time really exist?
- Why does it seem to move in one direction?
- Is time travel possible?
This connects abstract thinking to cutting-edge scientific ideas.
4. Debate: Does Love Conquer All?
A lively, structured debate drawing on:
- Philosophy
- Theology
- Personal reasoning
Students explore whether love is always transformative — or whether it has limits.
Why Host
Host a Thriving Minds Conference
Hosting a conference is a unique opportunity to:
- Bring a high-quality academic event to your students
- Invite other local schools to attend
- Raise the profile of your department and school
- Create a memorable intellectual experience for your pupils
We provide:
- Full programme and speakers
- Event structure and materials
- Booking system and admin support
How hosting works
How it works
- You offer to host (via short form)
- We agree a date and capacity with you
- We open bookings to local schools
- We deliver the event with you
Typical host schools:
- Provide a hall / lecture space
- Welcome visiting schools
- Bring their own students
Scheduled events
Intermediate Stretch Conferences
All bookings made by schools. £35 per student, One free staff place per 12 students.
Places are limited at each venue and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bespoke
Bring a Conference to Your School
If you are unable to attend one of our national conferences, we also offer bespoke in-school events.
Schools can choose from our established programmes:
Prefer something just for your school?
Bring this experience to your students
Booking
Conference Fees
Students:
A fixed fee of £35 each
We have access to sponsorship for students wishing to attend but for whom the cost is a significant challenge for their families. Please contact us for further details.
Staff:
A fixed fee of £35 each
One free place with every 12 students, the charge for which will be deducted at checkout.
Unaccompanied teachers attending for their own CPD to pay £220.
Please Note:
These events fill quickly but we appreciate that many schools need time to collect money from students.
Booking Information
Bookings are normally made by schools, with students attending as part of a supervised school group.
- £35 per student
- One free staff place per 12 students
- Suitable for Years 7–9
- Schools may bring mixed year groups
- Typical group size: 12–40 students (larger groups welcome by arrangement)
- Individual students may attend if accompanied by a responsible adult
- Events run from 9.30am–2.30pm
- Students should bring a packed lunch
- Tea and coffee provided for staff