STEM 2021/2022 report

SUE LICASTRO | STEM Coordinator

At the end of 2021, two Year 7 students —Jonty Benfield and Griffin Town— had the opportunity to attend a two-day program designed to engage and enthuse high achieving students. The program included assessing water quality at Griffith University and learning techniques to work with different microorganisms in biomedical research at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. Students gained first hand exposure to researchers who are finding solutions to some of the challenges confronting the environment and health issues facing humankind.

On Friday 26 November last year, three Year 9 students —Lara Bellamywells, Jacob McIntosh and Nicola Wolf —attended the Wonders of Science State Conference at The University of Queensland. They had the opportunity to showcase their STEM research investigation on, Changes in temperature of a reaction in a closed system. Students had seven minutes to present their research to an audience and answer questions. It also provided opportunities to network and engage with the Young Science Ambassadors, academics and industry representatives as well as other students from across the State. They are to be congratulated on a noble effort.

Launching of the 2022 STEM Ambassador Program, by Griffith University, was delayed this year due to COVID restrictions. It was not until early Term 2 that St Peters students had the opportunity to participate. Five student representatives across Years 8-10 attended the annual conference held at Parliament House. Students had the opportunity to engage in leadership activities, listen to guest presenters and develop a strategic action plan tailored to the St Peters community. After lunch students moved over to the Queensland Museum where they had the opportunity to engage in various science activities in the Spark Lab.

On Thursday 17 March, 32 Year 10 students participated in the annual Science and Engineering Challenge run by the University of Queensland in conjunction with the University of Newcastle. This challenge helps Year 10 students to foster their interest in STEM. In groups, students are presented with various challenges/problems to solve over the course of the day. These challenges foster development of critical thinking skills which are among the most highly valued attributes that employers seek for jobs candidates. This year St Peters gained third place. They are to be congratulated on a great team effort.