In response to growing interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), a new wave of co-curricular programs is set to open doors to deeper exploration and innovation for our students.
The unique STEM offering will introduce a range of hands-on programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of innovators, and equip students with practical skills that will push their thinking beyond the classroom.
Offered from Kindergarten to Year 12, the STEM co-curricular program will be structured around five key pillars, with a clear progression of skills and complexity specifically designed for each year level:
- Science, Design and Engineering: Biomedical, design, Al and innovation
- Aerospace, Drones and Flight: Aerodynamics, flight simulation, and aerial mapping
- Robotics: Coding, mechatronics, and design challenges
- Future Transport and Vehicles: Electric, solar, and hybrid design
- Environment and Sustainability: Marine ecology, recycling, and renewable resources
This whole-school STEM model integrates curriculum, co-curricular and industry partnerships, and provides authentic, hands-on learning opportunities for students that are grounded in real-world contexts.
Head of Science, Ms Hannah Sherer, says the expansion reflects both student demand and the increasing importance of STEM pathways in higher education and future careers.
“The program has been designed to provide students with opportunities to think beyond the traditional classroom and engage in authentic problem solving.
“These experiences help students see STEM not simply as a blend of subjects, but as an opportunity for solving meaningful problems in the world around them,” Ms Sherer said.
Head of Technology, Ms Kate Sonter, noted that students can often become hesitant to take risks because they were worried about getting things wrong.
“The focus behind the program is also helping students become comfortable with challenge, uncertainty and failure.
“We want to intentionally shift that mindset by creating environments in which testing ideas, making mistakes, and refining solutions is seen as an essential part of learning.
“Through this program, we hope students develop not only technical skills, but also resilience, curiosity, and the confidence to tackle complex problems with creativity and courage,” Ms Sonter said.
Each pillar will culminate in a competition or challenge that allows students to showcase the skills they have built over time, and Year 12 STEM Portfolio Captain Olivia says the program will act as a great entry point into real-life challenges and thinking for students.
“As cultural anthropologist and author Margaret Mead said, ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has’.
“These words have always stuck with me, and STEM is where we stop looking for safe answers and start looking for meaningful ones.
“This is exactly what the new STEM co-curricular program seeks to foster. It covers so many flavours of STEM, and speaks to so many interests, and I highly encourage students to get involved and take advantage of these amazing new opportunities,” Olivia said.