Thinkways is a little different.
We are a family-run, independent educational organisation based in Western Australia, created to give children rich, challenging and inspiring learning experiences alongside like-minded peers.
Thinkways was founded by Mr Alan Slater, a biological scientist, fully qualified registered teacher, and experienced gifted and talented educator. Our programs are also shaped by Yuliya Slater, an experienced emergency nurse who brings valuable real-world medical insight and regularly trains doctors and nurses across Western Australia. Together, we bring specialist knowledge, practical experience and a genuine commitment to working with children.
Because Thinkways is independently run, we are free to make decisions based on what is best for students. We are not a franchise, we are not locked into a membership model, and we are not tied to any one organisation. That means families can enrol simply, without long-term sign-ups or unnecessary barriers, the way learning should be.
Thinkways is a passion project alongside our professional roles, because we genuinely love creating meaningful learning opportunities for children. Every workshop is personally planned and delivered with care, with a strong focus on challenge, curiosity and connection.
Our aims:
- Nurture children’s unique interests and abilities by providing stimulating programs that introduce them to new ideas and experiences.
- Provide children with the opportunity to explore areas of unique interest typically not available until high school or university.
- Support children with high learning potential to develop a growth mindset through effort, practice and persistence.
- Encourage intellectual risk taking and embrace failures as a part of the learning process.
- Work with families, schools, universities and professionals to support children with high learning potential.
Our beliefs:
- Every young person deserves a positive, ambitious and appropriately challenging education, including those with high learning potential.
- The importance of constructive partnerships that serve the best interests of young people with high learning potential.
- The value of young people, parents, universities and schools as full partners in the learner’s education; developing skills and confidence to enable them to play this equal role.
- The importance of raising awareness about and advocating for the needs of young people with high learning potential and their families.
- Retaining our independent voice of Western Australia, representing young people with high learning potential.
- Recognising the connection between the educational and social-emotional needs of young people with high learning potential and supporting their holistic development.
We recognise that high-potential learners need more than extension alone. They also need encouragement, resilience, understanding and the right environment to thrive. Thinkways is committed to supporting the whole child, helping young people grow in confidence as well as capability.
Our workshops are welcoming, inclusive and designed for children with a strong interest in the topic, regardless of their school background. They are offered throughout the year, including during term time, weekends and school holidays, in inspiring and carefully chosen locations that support both creativity and student wellbeing.
Interested to know more? Contact us anytime.
Some of Our Partners in Education & Innovation
Everything we do to support children with high learning potential is strengthened through collaboration. By working alongside universities, schools, and professionals across various fields, we're able to create enriching experiences that spark curiosity and nurture talent. Our partnerships, whether through venue support, program collaboration, or specialist involvement, each play a role in helping us deliver high-quality learning opportunities. Here are just a few of the organisations we're proud to have worked with.
