STEAM News
Following is a report by Lachlan Chau of his experiences at the BHP Foundation Science and Engineering Awards.
Lachlan won the prestigious National award for his investigative project
examining the effect of blue light on sleep patterns.
BHPFSEA virtual camp experience was extremely enjoyable and fun!
I was privileged enough to be given the opportunity to attend several sessions with like-minded science-oriented peers, as we "travelled" to explore the reservation projects of flora and fauna on Kangaroo Island, and see complicated by magnificent designs of very limited edition coins at the Royal Australian Mint. Other events included monitoring a radio telescope, making Aboriginal pumpkin damper, and solving challenging puzzles with other students to increase teamwork and collaboration skills! Participation in the camp also required us to share our own winning science projects, which involved preparing a explanation video and attending a ten minute question and answer session afterwards. It really helped boost my confidence and gave me really good sharing experiences and skills that I can now apply in future projects. Overall, this camp really increased my scientific and cultural enrichment, as well as given me more breath and depth to my learning, and I hope more students from this school will take the opportunity to participate in this awesome and once-in-a-lifetime camp
Lachlan Chau
Also Emma Parfitt the Sustainability captain 2021 was selected for the prestigious National youth Science Forum and below is her report on her experiences.
In January, I was lucky enough to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) Year 12 Program for 3 weeks of science lectures, workshops and networking events. Usually a 10-day residential science camp, the NYSF had to adapt this year so delivered a line-up of virtual events. I was selected through Rotary to attend this year’s event. Although the program was online, I had the opportunity to meet some incredible people - from some of my all-time favourite people in STEM, such as Dr Karl, to Nobel laureates, to the over 500 other budding scientists attending the event. 66% of the attendees were girls, and 44% from rural areas, aiming to increase access to science. It was amazing to be able to meet so many like-minded people and learn so much that I never would’ve known. We even got a sneak peek into some cutting-edge research and facilities, including a live cross to CERN in Switzerland, Heron Island and the Australian Antarctic Division. The NYSF encouraged me to look at my career choices with a critical eye, and expanded the ideas I have for my future in STEM. It was an incredible 3 weeks of hearing from STEM professionals, doing workshops (making plastic from rice flour was a highlight) and developing critical thinking and science communication skills that are essential in the industry. Now I’ve gone through the program, I am excited to take up the opportunities that being part of the alumni crew will bring and look forward to my future in STEM in year 12, university and beyond!
To any year 11s even remotely considering a career in science, I strongly recommend applying for the 2022 program.
Emma Parfitt
Our heartiest congratulations to Lachlan and Emma. You inspires us !
2021 Science Talent Search
2021 is the 70th Annual Science Talent Search!!
Choose a project, build a model, SCIENCE!
Win prizes and fame!
For more information and to register go to: Science Talent Search Registration if you have any questions or would like to discuss project ideas see or message Ms Nair or Mr Mulhall in J7 at recess or lunchtime.
STEAM Club in action
Veena Nair & Finn Mulhall
STEAM Leaders