Strategy and Activities
The major facets of the program include:
a) Science-based class presentations by the Science Education Officer (SEO) where students are exposed to cutting edge scientific research and the exciting opportunities for science graduates in their region, with examples of the application of science in local primary industries.
b) A two-day program of teacher professional development for teachers in each Activity Centre, to illustrate the connection between the science taught in class and the science used locally in primary industries and Research and Development organisations.
c) Student scholarships to five-day industry science induction camps for selected Year 11-12 students in December, involving in-depth consideration of career and research opportunities for science graduates. Postgraduate students from local research institutions and scientists working in local primary industries provide assistance and input at these camps.
d) A five day student industry placement for scholarship students in January with a team of scientists in specific local industries or research organisations. At the end of the placement, students provide a report to other scholarship students, the industry mentors, University and parents.
e) Production of science teaching resources that integrate into pre-tertiary science curricula and use practical, primary industry science examples. Each year different themes are chosen, relating to different science subjects and linked to industry applications.
f) A camp for year 10 students with a focus on connecting schools with primaries industries research in local areas.
g) The running of a regional Science Investigation Award event at each activity centre. Students conduct their own science investigation and present it at a culminating event.