Year 8 students in Circular Head stepped out of their classrooms and into the world of science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) through a hands-on program hosted by the University of Tasmania’s School of Natural Sciences and Study Centre Circular Head.
About 90 students from Smithton High School and Circular Head Christian School took part in the half-day program, which was developed with local schools, council and industry to give young people direct insight into STEMM pathways.
Students rotated through six activity stations, each co-hosted by a University of Tasmania academic and an industry partner, including representatives from Cradle Coast NRM, Grange Resources and Sustainable Timber Tasmania.
The hands-on activities showed how science and research connect with key local industries, from pharmaceuticals to mining and forestry, while encouraging students to consider future study and career opportunities.
Study Centre Circular Head Manager, Tony McGillvery said the program was carefully designed to reach students at a critical stage in their education.
“The Study Centre Circular Head is proud to work with the University of Tasmania in presenting the aHead of the Curve: Circular Head STEMM Expo. By showing the link between local industries and tertiary study, we hope to inspire young people to see a future for themselves in STEMM,” Mr McGillvery said.
He said the Study Centre provides free, wrap-around support for remote students studying with any Australian university or registered training organisation, helping more young people in the region take up post-secondary study.
University of Tasmania Dean of the School of Natural Sciences, Professor Julianne O’Reilly-Wapstra said the initiative reflects the power of collaboration.
“By working alongside local industry leaders, our academics can show students how science is used every day in their own community. That experience can open doors in young minds and help them imagine futures they may not have thought possible,” Professor O’Reilly-Wapstra said.
Among the stall holders on the day was University of Tasmania graduate and former Smithton local Jessica Nesbit, who said the event was the kind of opportunity she wished she had experienced as a student.
“It is so exciting to see STEMM in schools here. There were no activities like this when I was a student, and I know how much of a difference it could have made. Opportunities like this can really change the way young people see their future,” Ms Nesbit said.
The program was shaped with guidance from the Circular Head Education and Training Consultative Committee and supported through an Inspiring Australia science grant.