Hinterland Education August 2023

Education Hinterland

Diversity’s not rocket science

By Sonia Isaacs

GIRLS and women remain “desperately underrepresented” in STEM programs from early school years right through to tertiary education despite significant investment and targeted programs, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) says. The scathing assessment follows last week’s release of draft recommendations into the Department of Industry, Science and Resources’ Diversity in STEM report.

The review –commissioned to address systemic and structural barriers limiting STEM participationacknowledged that the current system was falling well short of expectations.

New data from the STEM Equity Monitor showed women made up just 20 per cent of people with STEM qualifications.

The data also indicates a widening career aspiration disparity with girls half as likely as boys to seek a career in the field of science, technology, engineering and maths.

Minister for Industry and Science said he wanted to hear the “uncomfortable truths” behind the review.

“We know there is a huge amount of work to be done to boost diversity in the STEM fields,” he said.

“But that’s why we appointed this expert independent panel.

“We want them to tell us the uncomfortable truths and suggest possible ways to address this issue.”

Sally-Ann Williams, Chair of the Independent Panel and CEO of Cicada Innovations said: “The only way to achieve our ambitious goals in STEM is to have a truly

inclusive STEM ecosystem.”

ATSE CEO, Kylie Walker, said her organisation was pleased to see a call for centralised coordination and a national strategic approach.

“A whole-of-system approach that unflinchingly and collaboratively addresses cultural and systemic barriers will be critical to smash the factors that are holding women and diverse people back, and

provide whole-of-lifecycle support to bolster diverse participation in STEMpowered jobs,” she said.

The National Skills Commission predicts STEM jobs will grow at almost twice the rate of non-STEM jobs by 2026.

Dean of Studies at Glasshouse Christian College, Rob Steffler said he didn’t see a huge imbalance in the STEM study choices at

Beerwah State High School

Together we learn, individually we grow, success for all

school, but acknowledged that career, university and further study options may not see the same level of balance between boys and girls. He said he felt our regional location was not a barrier to STEM study uptake with an accessible network of industry and academia available.

“A key question here is how do we get young people exposed to these industries and aware of the various opportunities that can exist. I think as educators we have a responsibility to encourage our young people and in this case young women to access and be exposed to as many opportunities as possible to engage and learn, whether through innovative learning opportunities,

collaborations, field trips or engaging classroom environments,” Rob said.

“Young people and our young women need to see opportunities to learn, and as teachers if we see opportunities or connections that can assist in leaning growth we should be seeking to share those opportunities and encourage that interest,” Beerwah State High School’s Head of Science Department, Paul Schneider, said he was seeing a gradual shift to a more balanced uptake of tertiary and career interest in more traditionally male dominated STEM industries such as engineering. He said diversity was essential to the ongoing success of STEM innovation and said it was good to see government initiatives supporting more women towards STEM based research and careers.

Continued p20

Success For All

Succe SS for all

at Beerwah State h igh School

Message froM the PrinciPal

Our goal is to ensure that 100% of our students attain a pathway into education, employment and training.

“My goal is clear – we have high expectations and I want us all to have pride in our school. Beerwah is a fantastic school, with dedicated and highly capable staff, absolutely delightful students, a supportive community and we can definitely deliver a high-class education for all of our students. I’m proud that we can cater for and continue to support the full range of diverse students and we offer a fully inclusive and supportive environment”.

Lyn McDonald

Hinterland Education

Pathway less travelled STEM data does not compute

By Sonia Isaacs

NATURAL curiosity, supportive mentorship and exposure to innovations and opportunities in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related fields have underpinned a drive to succeed for Beerwah State High year 12 students Poppy Taylor and Nikita Emhofer.

Both young women are academic high flyers who have embraced STEM related studies in a bid to follow their dreams towards a career path in medicine.

Poppy, who is currently studying Maths, BioChemistry and Physics said she had always been passionate about science subjects, however she said her interest really took off in year 10 after being selected as one of 50 girls from around the state to attend a specially curated STEM ‘girl power’ camp.

Poppy said this experience allowed her to see first-hand where a STEM related career or study path could lead.

“We visited the University and spoke with people in science careers like

researchers and engineers. This was my first experience meeting people like this, and it made me realise this was what I also wanted to do!

It was an amazing experience and really opened my eyes as I hadn’t previously realised these opportunities existed,” Poppy explained.

Nikita said she had always loved looking into how things worked and had always been fascinated at the mechanics of how things worked together so she was naturally drawn to following a She said she had always wanted to do medicine and was currently doing Maths and Bio-Chemistry. She said she had always found her teachers to be highly supportive and encouraging which allowed her to build her confidence in her ability to achieve her goals.

“Our teachers have gone above and beyond to support our learning with mentorship,

tutoring, access to additional resources and connections and have always encouraged us to be more curious – that’s basically how I became interested in science because of curiosity!” Nikita said.

“Their support and care about our education has given us the confidence in our ability to take on big subjects that could have been overwhelming,” she added.

Poppy said she found it inspiring to be academically supported and to have teachers who could help explore options and be open to questions and discussion.

She said although some young women might find STEM subjects intimidating - she said seeing more women in science research, successful STEM related careers and leadership roles was exciting. Nikita said she would like to see even more women represented in science and maths teaching roles in the future.

“I think young women should explore STEM career paths and not be off put by what can initially appear to be intimidating subjects – with the right support and encouragement these can be completely accessible career and subject paths,” Nikita said.

Both young women have been part of the school’s Pinnacle excellence program since year 7 and both have listed a study preference to attend James Cook University and enter Bachelor of Medicine degrees.

Continued from p19

He added that it was up to schools as well to keep finding new and innovative ways to engage students.

“As educators we are moving away from the traditional ‘board, chalk and talk’ theory-based teaching to more practical applications that encourage learning,” he said.

“For example, our year 7 students are learning principles of maths, physics and industrial design by creating a model car using our new 3D printer which supports our science team and other projects.

“We also engage our students through practical application in Digital Technologies and areas like robotics.”

The review’s recommendations are contained within four themes:

Improving leadership and governance; addressing culture and community attitudes to break stereotypes and increase visibility of career pathways; supporting life-long learning in STEM; and changing how STEM workplaces attract and retain underrepresented employees.

Feedback on the draft recommendations is being sought and can be found here: consult. industry.gov.au/diversityinstem2/ draft-recommendations

Nikita Emhofer and Poppy Taylor

Building Your Future With You!!

The Fresh Start Difference

Fresh Start Education is an Australian owned training provider (RTO# 45237) dedicated to delivering nationally accredited courses to the Building and Construction Industry.

Our team is comprised of Building and Construction and Vocational Education and Training (VET) industry experts, with years of experience in roles such as open builders and contractors, construction managers, project managers, general managers and CEO’s.

As your Industry Mentor, we contribute to building a skilled and resilient workforce by providing quality assured industry training, pathways and strategies that meet the evolving needs of the Building and Construction Industry.

The team at Fresh Start Education are committed to guiding you through every stage of your construction career, with a vision of supporting you in becoming a successful building professional.

Confirm you’re on the right path to Building Your Future!!

As licenced trade contractors and builders, we understand the challenges of industry, and make it our mission to provide you with the right education and advice, guiding you on the path to success.

Our industry experts will discuss your previous experience, goals, and aspirations, and will work with you to understand your individual or business licence requirements. This approach enables us to confirm you are completing the right course to apply for the appropriate licence, or to receive that job promotion you’ve worked so hard for!!

If you are considering on becoming qualified or apply for a licence, book a FREE pre-qualification interview today!

Your Industry Mentor, Building Your Business With You!!

We believe that the growth of your business and industry relies on a

combination of world class capability and access to expert advice and services. With more than 60+ years of industry experience across our team, we make it our mission to keep you up to date with the latest building industry information, changes, trends, and topics.

Our Industry Nights offer students an opportunity to engage with industry professionals and experts, providing you with the information and skills needed to support you in building a strong and sustainable business.

Nationally recognised qualifications and courses designed to meet Building Licence requirements.

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At Fresh Start Education, we offer full Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as well as a blended training method, that meets the requirements necessary for building licences across all states of Australia.

As your Industry Mentor, we contribute to the evolution of industry by continuously reviewing industry trends and trade demand, enabling us to respond to emerging issues by providing innovative skills solutions and opportunity.

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Prep for best at Landsborough

CHILDREN born from 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019 are eligible to start Prep next year. Now is the time to start planning and enrolling them into school. To assist in the process, Landsborough State School is holding a series of Open Day events.

Prep Parent Information Night –Wednesday 6 September 6-7pm

Principal Tour - Friday 8 September at 9am Prep play afternoons (4 in total) – 10 October, 25 October, 9

November and 24 November from 2:45pm-3:30pm.

Principal Selina Barry warmly invites prospective parents and students to come along and find out the answers to all the questions they might have.

“We are a small school with just under 300 students”, said Ms Barry.

“This fosters a supportive family-like learning environment that allows students to prosper both academically and socially.

Our school motto is ‘Your Future, Our Focus’ and learning is an active, positive partnership between children, parents and staff.” Our purpose is to educate children to become young adults who will continue to learn and thrive in an ever-changing world.”

At Landsborough, students have access to a wide variety of extracurricular activities such as lunchtime clubs, choir, art, dance, instrumental music, sport, swimming, whole school musicals, excursions, and camps. For busy working parents, a before and after school care program is located on the school grounds, operated by Helping Hands. A Vacation Care program is also offered. For more information contact us at: 5436 2777.

Individualised services to inspire a love of learning

HINTERLAND Learning is the brainchild of Lead Educator Sarah Sharma who opened the learning hub in Beerwah after leaving her successful teaching career in 2020. The confined structure of her traditional teaching role inspired her to create a personalised, empathetic learning environment that is beneficial for students.

Sarah also saw a need and demand to provide educational services for the burgeoning

hinterland homeschooling community in the wake of the covid restrictions that disrupted a lot of traditional school paradigms.

Sarah’s flexible, adaptable education model provides students of all ages and abilities with support in a safe learning space.

Sarah is a Mum of three primary aged children, so she understands the parent viewpoint firsthand.

Sarah has also built a team of tutors who are patient, compassionate and take the time to understand how each child learns most effectively. They want their students to feel safe and encouraged and see how fun learning can be.

Sarah says “at Hinterland Learning, we don’t believe in learning issues; we call them ‘Learning Bugs’ because anyone can squash a bug, and anyone can

learn with the right guidance”.

The Hinterland Learning philosophy is about not pressuring children to be perfect, but rather, it is about encouraging them to always try their best.

Children are unique, and the team at Hinterland Learning work hard with their students to understand their learning styles and adapt lessons to meet their needs. With a range of individual and group-based programs, the team

at Hinterland Learning is ready to help your child thrive, so contact them today for more information about how to get started.

Striving forward through faith Going all Out & About for child care

EMPOWERING excellence through faith and education at Glasshouse Christian College (GCC), our commitment to education goes beyond the classroom; it’s a journey that intertwines faith, knowledge, and character development.

We celebrate academic excellence and enjoy a wonderful community spirit that is deeply rooted in the Christian values that guide every aspect of our College.

Our educators are dedicated to nurturing minds and fostering strong character that prepares students to make a positive impact on the world around them. Our students feel a strong sense of belonging and that provides them with the confidence

and security they need to reach their full potential.

GCC is proud of its facilities because they provide the tools our students require to truly excel.

Our new 600-seat performing arts theatre is the perfect venue for our Dance, Drama and Music students to perform.

We also have Dance and Drama studios, a dedicated Music wing, a professional recording studio, specialist Woodwork and Engineering facilities with welding bays and the latest CNC and laser technology.

Senior students can study Agricultural Science on a diverse working farm and learn the latest

Gearing up for the DeLorean project

THE DeLorean Project at Glasshouse Christian College is gearing up for its annual Youth Innovation Showcase on September 6 2023. This 30-week journey culminates in an expo where Year 10 students present their innovations.

The DeLorean Project is not just a school program; it’s a realworld application of education, creativity, and innovation. It’s about developing transferable skills that students can apply in any context and employment pathway.

This isn’t just another school event; it’s a testament to the

future of education and the empowerment of our young people. In its eighth year, the DeLorean Project allows students to identify areas of passion, explore problems, create solutions, and share them with the world. It’s about developing transferable skills that students can apply in any context and/or employment pathway.

Take “Eco Turf,” for example, a sustainable, environmentally friendly synthetic turf. It’s more than a product; it’s a commitment to the environment.

Or “1 Day 1 Week 1 Year,” a youth-suicide prevention

campaign. It’s not just a slogan; it’s a lifeline, and a beacon of hope to those in need.

“Tripy” is a digital public transport solution. It’s not just an app; it’s a new way of navigating our world, making public transport more easily accessible.

“Styled for You” is your online solution to cleaning up your wardrobe. It’s not just a service; it’s a revolution in personal styling.

These are just four examples of almost 30 student startups, each one a reflection of what young minds can achieve when given the right tools, guidance, and encouragement.

in modern farming techniques.

GCC is one of the most affordable schools on the Sunshine Coast.

All costs (except uniforms) are included in the one low tuition fee.

There is no extra charge for camps, incursions, excursions, subject levies or even laptops.

GCC’s reputation is growing and this is borne out by most of our year levels being full.

However, the waiting pools are small and you could be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you can enrol. We even have some openings in our Senior School that are available now. To find out more, book a tour or ring our Registrar, Mrs Sonya Bowden on 5439 0033.

WITH over 40 years of experience in childcare, Mooloolah’s new Out & About is designed specifically to give families piece of mind knowing their children are receiving the highest quality early education.

The centre boasts an on-site chef who prepares daily nutritious and delicious meals for the children, while two dedicated kindergarten teachers are also part of the team, enhancing the educational offerings.

Out & About’s owner, Pam McClane, is no stranger to the childcare industry, with two other successful centres in Maroochydore. The Mooloolah centre accommodates 88 children aged 0 to 5 and employs 25 staff members.

celebration of innovation and the creative spirit of our young people.

It’s a glimpse into the future, and the future looks bright.

If you’re interested in attending this event, please contact the College on 5439 0033 for more information.

One of the centre’s unique features is its five rooms, each named after beloved children’s books, catering to different age groups. The team at Out & About is thrilled to have joined the local community and welcomes enrolments for 2024, particularly in the 3-4-year and Kindergarten rooms, as spaces are expected to fill up quickly. outandabout.net.au

Hinterland Education

Suncoast’s world-class campus

By Phoebe Price

TEACHERS from Suncoast Christian College in Woombye, Queensland, will be the first to experience the school’s much anticipated new campus when they step inside its doors on Friday September 1 2023.

Teacher Set Up Day will see staff from Suncoast Christian College descend onto the primary school campus for a sneak peek of the new building ahead of its official opening. The day is designed to help teachers familiarise themselves with the new space before students begin classes at the campus in Woombye.

Following the release of campus designs in 2021, Suncoast Christian College announced its move towards a more collaborative style of teaching. The new campus will offer the most advanced facilities on the Sunshine Coast, replacing classrooms with flexible, openplan environments designed to support the school’s ‘teamteaching’ pedagogy.

The classrooms feature a range of functional design features, such as walls that can be taken down to facilitate open-plan learning spaces, allowing teachers to modify and tailor lessons to the specific abilities and needs of individual students and varying group sizes. Teachers and teacher’s assistants will work together over two levels with

students in groups of five up to 100, in years 1 through 6.

Suncoast Christian College

Principal, Greg Mattiske, says the upcoming Teacher Set Up Day is an exciting chance for teachers to envision how their classes can be enriched by the new state-ofthe-art facilities.

“As the first glimpse of our new campus comes into view, we are reminded of what a crucial role our staff have played in the re-imagining of our school,” he said.

“By providing teachers with a collaborative, modern space that allows them to cater to a

wide range of student needs, we are facilitating the best social, emotional, and academic outcomes for our pupils.”

Christian teachers will provide the best in contemporary education.

Heralded as a game-changer in educational design, the new building has been brought to life by renowned architects m3 Architecture who are known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to intuitive buildings and modern design.

when it announced plans to offer individuals and families the chance to have their names immortalised into one side of the new primary school building, through the use of stainless steel laser-etched discs.

“It is an exciting time to see years of vision being brought to life in front of us, culminating in a state-of-the-art, intuitively designed building,” adds Mattiske.

“Now it is up to our wonderful educators to harness the building’s full potential for the benefit of each and every student.”

Founded on reclaimed farming land in 1979 as the Suncoast Christian Academy, the school’s first building was an old pineapple packing shed. It has since become a prestigious educational facility with almost 1000 students, boasting the most advanced school buildings on the Sunshine Coast. The new campus is phase one of a 25-year master building plan as the school looks to add a further 100 students in response to a growing student population.

With an approach focused on stage rather than age, the new layout will provide flexible and collaborative environments where the school’s team of dedicated

Anticipation for the new look campus has been slowly building since the designs were unveiled in 2021. Since then, the school has continued to draw attention

Suncoast Christian College’s new state-of-the-art campus is designed to challenge traditional ways of teaching.

We are reminded of what a crucial role our staff have played in the re-imagining of our school.

Greg Mattiske

NEW AURA LOCATION OPEN

Our learning programs cover numeracy, literacy, creative writing and history for students of all ages from Pre-Prep to Grade 12. Centrally located hub in Beerwah or Zoom lessons available. Our exible teaching model allows us to tutor your children from any location.