Where curiosity becomes capability.
Launchpad helps curious high school learners develop the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to explore science, technology, mathematics and creative problem-solving beyond the classroom.
Why Launchpad?
Education should create thinkers, not just test writers.
At Launchpad, we believe curiosity is one of the most valuable qualities a young person can possess. Our role isn’t simply to improve marks—it is to nurture confident thinkers who ask better questions, connect ideas across disciplines and develop the skills to solve problems that don’t yet have answers.
Discover
Curiosity deserves direction.
Great ideas begin with questions. We help learners explore beyond the syllabus and build the confidence to investigate the world around them.
Understand
Knowledge is only the beginning.
Learning isn’t memorising facts—it’s understanding how ideas fit together and why they matter.
Create
Turn ideas into reality.
Whether it’s coding, engineering, scientific research or creative design, learners apply what they know through meaningful projects.
Explore your path
Every learner begins somewhere.
Whether you’re aiming for stronger academic foundations, dreaming of building robots, preparing for university, or asking questions no textbook can answer, Launchpad provides a pathway to help you grow.
Academic Excellence
Build confidence in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Strengthen understanding, prepare for examinations, and develop the problem-solving skills that underpin every STEM discipline.
Discovery Lab
Where curiosity becomes exploration.
Investigate fascinating questions, experiment with new technologies, learn programming, explore AI, electronics, astronomy, engineering and more through guided projects.
Research & Innovation Studio
For learners ready to tackle real-world problems.
Develop original research projects, prepare for science expos, competitions and university applications while learning how scientists and innovators actually work.
Mentorship
Guidance for the journey ahead.
Career exploration, university preparation, study strategy and one-on-one mentorship to help learners make informed decisions about their future.
Why I started Launchpad
by Anke van Dyk
Building a place for curious minds.
Launchpad grew from a simple belief: the most rewarding learning begins with curiosity. While academic success is important, the ability to ask thoughtful questions, connect ideas across disciplines and approach unfamiliar problems with confidence is what truly prepares young people for the future.
As an astronomer, educator and lifelong learner, I’ve experienced first-hand how discovery happens—not through memorising answers, but through persistence, creativity and collaboration. Launchpad exists to give learners that same opportunity: to explore deeply, think critically and develop the confidence to pursue ambitious ideas.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in science, research and education. Again and again, I’ve seen that the people who make the greatest impact aren’t necessarily the ones who memorise the most—they’re the ones who remain curious, ask thoughtful questions and aren’t afraid to explore unfamiliar ideas.
Too often, those qualities aren’t given enough room to grow in traditional classrooms. Launchpad was created to change that.
It is a place where academic excellence provides the foundation, but curiosity sets the direction. Whether a learner wants to master Mathematics, build a robot, investigate an original research question or simply discover what excites them, my goal is to help them develop the confidence and skills to pursue ambitious ideas with purpose.
Who is Launchpad for?
You don’t need to have all the answers. You simply need the curiosity to ask the questions.
Every learner is different. Some come to strengthen academic foundations, while others are eager to build, create and investigate. Launchpad is designed for young people who want to understand the world more deeply and are excited to keep learning.
You’re endlessly curious.
You find yourself asking “why?” and “how?” You enjoy understanding how the world works and aren’t satisfied with simply memorising facts.
You want to excel academically.
Whether you’re preparing for exams or aiming for university entrance, you want a deeper understanding of Mathematics and Physical Sciences—not just better marks.
You enjoy building and creating.
Programming, electronics, engineering, design and hands-on projects excite you. You learn best by making things.
You’re thinking about your future.
You’d like guidance as you explore university options, STEAM careers, research opportunities and the many paths available after school.
You have a big idea.
Perhaps you’ve always wanted to investigate a scientific question, enter a science expo or create something ambitious — you simply don’t know where to begin.
You’re still discovering what inspires you.
Not every learner already has a passion, and that’s perfectly okay. Launchpad is a place to explore different fields, discover new interests and develop confidence along the way.
Every great journey begins with curiosity. Where will yours lead?