Conferences
Academy Learning runs a national and international series of academic conferences designed to challenge, inspire, and stretch high-ability students aged 12–19. Our events bring together world-class thinkers to explore big ideas in science, philosophy, and ethics—with a focus on integrative learning across disciplines. We also offer professional development for teachers and support the UK Philosothon movement.
UK Student Conferences
Gifted & Talented Programme (Ages 14–19)
Each year, over 2,000 students attend this national series of interdisciplinary events designed for exceptional learners. The programme features talks by leading polymaths such as Dr Chris O’Neill, Professor Raymond Tallis, Dr Andrew Pinsent, and Professor Tom Greggs. Topics include science, ethics, and psychology and the philosophy of knowledge, with a focus on the relationship between different areas of human understanding. The largest event takes place in Oxford with over 700 attendees.
Intermediate Gifted & Talented Programme (Ages 12–14)
Adapted for younger students, this version includes two keynote talks, a formal debate, and a structured Community of Inquiry. These events promote critical thinking, ethical reflection, and student voice, reaching 2,000 students per year.
A Level Philosophy, Ethics & Religion (Ages 16–18)
Focused on students taking Religious Studies or Philosophy A Level, this event series brings curriculum content to life. Areas of study include philosophy, analytic theology, neuroscience, cosmology, the problem of evil, and practical ethics. These events attract over 1,500 students annually, with growing interest from schools across the country.
Australasian Student Conferences
Gifted & Talented Programme (Ages 15–17)
Delivered in hub cities across Australia and New Zealand, these interdisciplinary events reach over 2,500 high-ability students annually. Each programme combines science and ethics/philosophy to explore how different areas of knowledge connect.
Junior Gifted & Talented Programme (Ages 12–14)
Adapted for younger students, this version includes two keynote talks, a formal debate, and a structured Community of Inquiry. These events promote critical thinking, ethical reflection, and student voice, reaching 2,000 students per year.
Teacher Training
Academy Learning
Academy Learning works in collaboration with UK exam boards and the University of Oxford to offer high-quality CPD. We provide training across all advanced Religious Studies specifications, as well as Philosophy & Ethics and Science & Religion. Sessions are attended by teachers from across the UK and Australasia.
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Philosothon
Philosothon UK
Julie Arliss leads the Philosothon UK initiative, promoting deep, collaborative thinking through the Community of Inquiry model. The 2025 national Philosothon final took place at Eton College, and the movement continues to grow with regional heats and a national final