Commencing in 2027
We offer short courses and one-off events in the humanities and sciences, where academics and other experts speak about their intellectual passions and encourage people to think critically about the big questions of culture and society.
Lowkey Learning
Our short courses are affordable, accessible, and assessment-free. They are designed for curious adults, and don’t need any prior knowledge. We combine expert teaching and creative methods with a supportive atmosphere where participants are encouraged to ask questions, exchange ideas, and think deeply together. Our courses are a space for focused engagement: a chance to explore complex questions about systems of power and social justice, away from the distractions and speed of everyday digital life. Our teachers and speakers present ideas, rigorous research and theory in accessible language, and encourage dialogue, debate and collective inquiry. Face-to-face courses will take place in Sydney, and we’ll also offer some courses online or in hybrid mode.
‘Pub Talks’: Bringing big ideas into community spaces
We’ll also hold one-off pub events on stimulating topics of the day. These will be presented by leading academics and researchers from Australian universities, who will share their ideas in public places. The talks will be held in informal venues such as city pubs, bars and community spaces. We anticipate talks on ‘big ideas’ and contemporary social issues such as inclusive societies, equitable housing, human rights, migration, politics, populism and authoritarianism, AI, technology, climate change and other environmental concerns. Some talks may focus on specific thinkers and philosophy traditions.
Other events
As well as short courses and pub talks, we’ll be holding public lectures and roundtables in informal venues, reading groups and discussion circles, author talks, film screenings and discussion, history walks and place-based learning.
