Young Thinkers Summer School (In-Person)

A quote from Plato which reads 'knowledge is the food of the soul' (illustrating the Young Thinkers Summer School)Embark on an intellectual exploration at the Young Thinkers Summer School – a fascinating journey in which thought experiments, debates, and philosophical discussions serve as the catalysts for sharpening analytical skills, introducing novel ideas, and instilling the confidence needed to compose and articulate compelling arguments.

At the heart of the programme are a selection of timeless questions, from the moral quandaries embedded in everyday life to classic philosophical puzzles concerning the nature of truth and reality. 

There are no right answers – only the ability to ask the right questions and the requirement to think logically and give reasons to back up your arguments. Informal group discussions allow students to get to grips with some challenging ideas in a relaxed environment, while larger debates offer an opportunity for detailed feedback.

Lively seminar debates tackle moral quandries like “Is it wrong to steal if you are poor and hungry?” or “Can it ever be right to sacrifice one life to save many others?”. Thought experiments offer a window into existential puzzles like “How do we know that life isn’t a simulation, and would it even matter if it was?” and “What makes me the same person that I was yesterday, or a year ago?”

Our tutors – graduates in philosophy and related disciplines from top universities – are friendly, approachable, and experienced working with this age group. Working with small groups, they will help students navigate through these fascinating and complex debates, and will explain the issues at the right pace for them.

A philosophical adventure that not only challenges the mind but also positions students as confident, articulate, and analytical thinkers—essential skills for the challenges that lie ahead.

For full practical and booking details just scroll down past the reviews.

Embark on an intellectual exploration at the Young Thinkers Summer School – a fascinating journey in which thought experiments, debates, and philosophical discussions serve as the catalysts for sharpening analytical skills, introducing novel ideas, and instilling the confidence needed to compose and articulate compelling arguments.

At the heart of the programme are a selection of timeless questions, from the moral quandaries embedded in everyday life to classic philosophical puzzles concerning the nature of truth and reality. 

There are no right answers – only the ability to ask the right questions and the requirement to think logically and give reasons to back up your arguments. Informal group discussions allow students to get to grips with some challenging ideas in a relaxed environment, while larger debates offer an opportunity for detailed feedback.

Lively seminar debates tackle moral quandries like “Is it wrong to steal if you are poor and hungry?” or “Can it ever be right to sacrifice one life to save many others?”. Thought experiments offer a window into existential puzzles like “How do we know that life isn’t a simulation, and would it even matter if it was?” and “What makes me the same person that I was yesterday, or a year ago?”

Our tutors – graduates in philosophy and related disciplines from top universities – are friendly, approachable, and experienced working with this age group. Working with small groups, they will help students navigate through these fascinating and complex debates, and will explain the issues at the right pace for them.

A philosophical adventure that not only challenges the mind but also positions students as confident, articulate, and analytical thinkers—essential skills for the challenges that lie ahead.

‘I think this course was really useful and fun as I got the opportunity to learn and contemplate new mind-boggling philosophies which are absolutely fascinating and I will carry on throughout my life. I also was given the chance to voice some of my views, which I don’t usually have elsewhere or even at school, which built up my confidence and ability to debate! The teacher was great and really friendly. I would recommend this course for everyone!’

‘The topics were fab and the teaching was great. It felt great to burn up my energy by debating in a positive way and feel able to share my opinions with people who listen. Everyone was really friendly and I had a great time. I would really recommend this day to any of my friends!!’

‘This course, while mind-bending in the extreme, was still very enjoyable and in fact one of the most enjoyable things I’ve done all holiday.’

‘You meet many new friends, while laughing and learning. When you go back to school, you’ll be much better without noticing. So come!’

Click here for more reviews of our Young Thinkers courses, or on the trustpilot link below for general reviews.

‘This course, while mind-bending in the extreme, was still very enjoyable and in fact one of the most enjoyable things I’ve done all holiday.’

‘You meet many new friends, while laughing and learning. When you go back to school, you’ll be much better without noticing. So come!’

Click here for more reviews of our Young Thinkers courses, or on the trustpilot link below for general reviews.

Practical Details

This is the in-person version of this course, see here for the online option.

The Young Thinkers Summer School is open to students aged 11 – 14, and will take place on the 7th August 2024.

This in-person course is one day in length, and teaching hours will run from 10.30am till 4.30pm, with a lunch break (parental supervision required, or a permission slip for students to leave the building unaccompanied).

The venue will be Woburn House, Bloomsbury, Central London – see more location details. Please note that this event is non-residential, and accommodation must be arranged independently if required.

The cost for this course is £85, and you can reserve your place with a 25% non-refundable deposit. The remainder of the payment is due eight weeks in advance of the course start date. Please see here for full booking terms and conditions.

If you have any questions, simply call us on 0800 810 1058 or email us at [email protected].

We offer a limited number of full and partial bursaries (of up to 90% of fees) to students who could not otherwise afford to attend. If you would like to apply for a bursary then please complete your bursary application here.