The National Science and Engineering Challenge

Ignite curiosity and reimagine STEM with the Science and Engineering Challenge!

Duration

9am - 2.30pm

When

See details below

Cohort

Year 9-10

Where

Hobart, Burnie and Launceston

Capacity

16 to 32 students

VOLUNTEERS - HOBART GUIDE VOLUNTEERS - LAUNCESTON GUIDE VOLUNTEERS - BURNIE GUIDE

About the program

The challenge aims to inspire students to consider a future career in STEM. By participating in the challenge, students see that science and engineering involves creativity, innovation, problem solving and teamwork.

In Tasmania, the challenge is coordinated by the University of Tasmania in collaboration with the University of Newcastle. It is generously supported by Rotary Clubs across Tasmania, the Tasmanian Government and TasWater. Additionally, in-kind support from Hydro Tasmania, Engineers Australia and various other organisations have been instrumental in making this challenge possible.

Participating schools select their representative teams of between 16 and 32 students from Years 9 and 10. A total of 8 different activities are set for each day, and each school allocates 2-4 students to each activity. Teams are divided into 8 groups that compete in 1 full day or 2 half-day activities. The students are encouraged to explore scientific principles for themselves.

  • Points are scored and tallied, and the winning school on that day qualifies for the State Finals. That winning team may also have the opportunity to compete at the 2026 National Finals in Canberra. School teams compete head-to-head and against the clock in a series of science and engineering challenges.
  • Places are limited to 8 schools per day and will be allocated on a first-in basis.

Please note: Schools with fewer than 16 students are encouraged to combine teams with other schools to take part.

If you have made arrangements to combine with another school, please include this information on the registration form.

How is the day organised?

  • 9:00 AM - Schools arrive at the venue.
  • 9:25 AM - Short intro by Team Leader, activities commence immediately afterward.
  • 11.30 AM - Lunch.
  • 12.00 PM - Afternoon session commences.
  • 1:50 PM - Each school tests the bridge they have built in front of everyone.
  • 2:30 PM - Event complete, schools depart.

Entry fee

The entry fee is $550 per team (including GST). This fee is collected by Rotary on behalf of the Science and Engineering Challenge team at the University of Newcastle.

Refund Policy

  • Refundable: If you notify us of your withdrawal up to 3 weeks prior to your allocated Challenge Day, the registration fee will be fully refunded.
  • Non-refundable: Any withdrawals made after this period are strictly non-refundable.

Financial Assistance

Our Transport Assistance Grant is once again available for eligible schools to help cover bus travel costs.

Educator resources:

Additional resources:

2027 event dates and registration details will be released early next year.

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The University of Tasmania is committed to creating diverse, inclusive, and accessible educational experiences. Please let us know when registering how we can best support your needs.