The first of our four STEM Academies (which will be rolled out individually over time, each one with a specific focus on a subject area of STEM ie. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) kicks off in Term 2 2025 which a focus on Engineering.

These co-ed academies are open to all partner schools through an application process, with a view of attracting students who have particular interests in a specific STEM discipline to come together as a like minded network to enhance their skills and solve real world industry challenges.

This program has been specifically designed to use a simple investigation, centred on the familiar concept of juicing oranges, to allow students the chance to focus explicitly on their scientific inquiry skills and delve into what makes a good experiment.

Students will get hands-on experience in modern molecular biology techniques. They will work with a plasmid containing the insulin gene fused to the green fluorescent protein (GFP), under the control of the arabinose operon.

As our climate continues to change and our planet tries to adapt to industrialisation and human endeavour, understanding the basic processes of life on earth will be critical in both trying to protect the home we have and the knowledge and skills required to potentially find a new one.

In this program, students get hands-on experience as they investigate the processes of photosynthesis and respiration in response to a range of environmental conditions.

Following the extraordinary discovery of the double-helical structure of DNA and the subsequent completion of comprehensive sequencing of the human genome, the importance of genetics and the associated career opportunities continue to grow.

In this program students will use gel electrophoresis, together with a family’s medical history, to diagnose a monogenetic or “single-gene” disorder and practice providing valuable genetic counselling.

Consciousness can be thought of as operating on a continuum, and altered states can occur naturally (e.g. sleep, daydreaming) or be induced (e.g. alcohol, anesthesia). Measuring these states usually involves methods like Electroencephalography (EEG) and speed and accuracy assessments. 

Both sleep deprivation and alcohol-induced states impact cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functions. A full night’s sleep deprivation (24 hours) is akin to a BAC of 0.1, while a BAC of 0.05 corresponds to 17 hours of partial sleep deprivation within 24 hours.

Can you trust your senses? Can your perception of reality be altered? In this program we look at how your nervous system can be affected by perception and how sensory information can be distorted.

The first activity of this program exposes students to different environmental experiences, moving from calming meditation to an exhilarating virtual reality rollercoaster. Students are able to apply their understanding of research methods in an interactive way while generating primary investigation data (heart rate) for analysis. 

In the Game of Drones, you win when you fly! Drones are currently used in a large variety of industries as well as for recreational purposes. From inspecting wind turbines or agricultural crops to Defence Force racing teams, there are many careers on offer for drone pilots.

The Boys in STEM program is focused on providing young men with a similar opportunity to our highly successful and well established Girls in STEM program. Running for two days per term throughout the year, it will enable students to explore the world of STEM through hands on activities and connections with local industries.

Students will engage in a series of real-world design and creative challenges, building connections and confidence within a supportive environment that provides the chance to meet and work with like-minded peers and STEM professionals.

This industry design challenge is ideal for students considering a VET course or career in Hospitality, Cookery, Baking or food related industries.

Students from different schools will work together in small groups to taste, design, prototype and produce a finished confectionery product for judging by the end of the day, with prizes to be awarded.