Schools from across the Mackay and Whitsunday Isaac region are ready to take part in a unique program that will inspire students in the fields of STEM, science and sustainability using local waterway data.
Students from Whitsunday Anglican School had the opportunity to take part in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge and work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future.
The program helps to apply new technologies to show students how their solutions could support a sustainable and prosperous region.
The one-day workshops were led by Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership in collaboration with STEMPunks Education, thanks to support from local Partners and the Queensland Government—Engaging Science Grants.
Chris Buswell, STEMPunks Head of Education said the workshops would encourage ‘design thinking’ for problem solving.
“We know this is predicted to be a key skill in workplaces of the future,” Mr Buswell said.
“The program will help students explore new STEM skills and immerse themselves in real-world problem solving, with a focus on creativity and innovation. ”
Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer, Jaime Newborn, said the Partnership was proud to support the program and provide real-world data.
“The Partnership produces our region’s annual waterway health Report Card, based on a huge range of data, more than $4 million worth annually,” she said.
“It is exciting to now see students in our region use this information from data providers who are committed to learning more about local waterways.”
Students were eager to navigate the Healthy Rivers to Reef challenge using virtual reality and tech tools including Micro:bit coding, Smart Sensors and even Minecraft prototyping skills.
Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton said, “As a school we have a strong commitment to developing skills in STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics.
“These are the skills that are so important for the future world as we prepare our students to be confident and leading into their respective fields when they leave school.”
The program also explores and promote STEM Careers, providing a chance to hear from STEM Professionals about their career journey and insights.
Workshops will be delivered to ten schools in the Mackay and Whitsunday Issac region in 2024/25.
Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton with Manager, Environment (Operations) of Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Ricci Churchill and Jaime Newborn, Executive officer for the Healthy Rivers to Reef partnership.
Whitsunday Anglican School students had the opportunity to engage in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge last Thursday, which encourages them to work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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