Turner  and Townsend Program

This year, Evans High School partnered with international consulting firm Turner and Townsend to collaborate on an exciting learning opportunity for gifted and talented Year 10 students. The Evans High/Turner and Townsend “Future Leaders in STEAM Program”. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics, and students were chosen to participate based on demonstrated aptitude in these areas.

As a part of the program, students were tasked with completing a project regarding innovation in delivering the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games (in which Turner and Townsend are closely linked with the development of). Students had to answer a simple question, “What can be done to ensure that the Brisbane Olympics are cleaner, greener and more sustainable?”

Throughout the school year, students took part in various activities related to developing skills in teamwork, public speaking, presentation skills and working in a fast-paced environment. They were paired with mentors from the company to develop their presentations. They were also able to go on multiple site visits, which included the Turner and Townsend offices in the Sydney CBD, and the construction site of the imminent Sydney Fish Markets. Students were able to gain firsthand knowledge of how a consultancy firm can assist both governments and non-government organisations in the creation and implementation of large-scale projects.

Students successfully delivered their presentations at the conclusion of the program. During these presentations, they were able to effectively demonstrate the skills and knowledge that had them selected to take part in the first place. The feedback on our students from industry veterans was extremely positive. Several of our students were asked to participate in the work experience program that is offered by Turner and Townsend in which they excelled. With a particular student being offered a cadetship with the firm upon the completion of their HSC.

Ultimately this program was a raging success for all parties involved. So much so that it is the beginning of what should ultimately be a fruitful ongoing partnership between Evans High and Turner and Townsend. We look forward to seeing what our students can produce in the future.