STEM: Innovator's Hub

Welcome to our New Space for STEM!

Hello and welcome to the inaugural edition of "STEM:  Innovator's Hub," your go-to corner for all things related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics at our school. This column is dedicated to keeping you informed, inspired, and involved in the thriving STEM culture that is a cornerstone of our educational community.

At EMC, we believe in learning by experience. Our journey into the world of STEM education began in 2024 with the introduction of the iSTEM program at Yr 9 level, a pioneering initiative that sought to integrate these critical disciplines in a way that was interactive, innovative, and immensely engaging for our students. The success of iSTEM has paved the way for its expansion, growing beyond its initial framework to encompass more grades and curricular opportunities.

As of now, the STEM program has evolved to include students in Years 7 and 8 as the "Innovators" subject, designed to foster an environment where young minds can explore and experiment with real-world problems using STEM principles. This program is exclusively available as part of the prestigious academic excellence pathway here at EMC "The Murdoch program", tailored to nurture the next generation of thinkers, scholars, and innovators.

For students in Years 9 and 10, STEM progresses into Year 9 iSTEM and Year 10 Technical Science. These two subjects are open to all students as part of their electives, providing an excellent platform for those who wish to dive deeper into more specialised and technical aspects of STEM education. This inclusivity ensures that every student has the opportunity to challenge themselves and expand their horizons.

Leading our STEM endeavors are two passionate educators: Rithik Kalvakuntla (Mr. K), who combines science with technology to cultivate a classroom environment rich with curiosity and exploration, and Jack Haggett (Mr. Haggett), our chemistry wizard who loves making potions with his students, known for his 'can-do' attitude and passion for all things in STEM. Together, they inspire our students to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Current Projects in STEM

Year 7 Innovator's Program:  Energy-Efficient Cabins

We always believe in striving for excellence. Our Year 7 Innovators are currently immersed in a project that combines environmental science with cutting-edge technology. They are tasked with designing energy-efficient cabins that not only push the boundaries of sustainable living but also incorporate modern aesthetic elements. Utilising 3D design software such as TinkerCAD, students are bringing their visions to life, creating detailed models of their cabins. These designs are then brought into the physical world with the help of our Bambu Lab P1S printers, allowing students to hold their innovations in their hands. This project not only teaches them about energy efficiency but also gives them a real-world application for their STEM skills.

Year 8 Innovator's Program: Biomimicry in Boat Design

The current focus for our Year 8 Innovator's subject students is on biomimicry, the science of designing and producing materials, structures, and systems that are modeled on biological entities and processes. Students are applying this concept to the creation of innovative boat designs. Inspired by nature’s most efficient aquatic forms, they are crafting models that mimic the shape and function of various marine organisms. This project not only enhances their understanding of biology and engineering but also encourages them to think creatively about how nature’s solutions can be replicated to solve human challenges. Pictured below is a team's (Precious Jones, Evie McCarthy and Abby Melrose) project from the Year 8 Innovator’s class, showcasing a paddle boat designed using mechanical energy principles—specifically, the conversion of potential to kinetic energy. This concept, introduced in their Science lessons, is brought to life through practical application in the Innovator’s session. Abbey's team faced multiple setbacks, requiring patience, persistence, and problem-solving to refine their design. Despite the challenges, their hard work paid off, and in the end, they celebrated a well-earned success. 

Year 9 iSTEM: Bridge Building Challenge

In Year 9, our students have recently completed the construction phase of their bridge building project, a highly anticipated and competitive event. Using only spaghetti and three sticks of 10 cm hot glue for reinforcement, these budding engineers have created structures that are both lightweight and strong. 

The testing phase is now underway, where these spaghetti bridges are evaluated for their load-bearing capacities. A bridge weighing about 167.4 grams astonishingly supported up to 9740 grams! This project highlights the incredible strength and power of triangular design principles and provides a compelling introduction to structural engineering.

At the end of each skill-based learning project, our students expatiate their work in the form of a scientific report and save it for their future reference; fostering their development into true scientists. 

NASA Space Exploration Program 2026

Embark on a Journey Beyond the Classroom with Elisabeth Murdoch College’s NASA Space Exploration Experience 2026 

Elisabeth Murdoch College, in collaboration with Latitude Group Travel, is excited to offer an unparalleled educational opportunity for students currently in Years 8, 9, and 10. Dubbed "STEM at NASA: A Journey Beyond the Classroom," this exclusive tour is set to take place from 21 June to 3 July 2026 and promises to be a transformative experience, combining intensive learning with awe-inspiring adventures. 

Unique Learning Opportunities 

Participants will embark on a 12-day adventure spanning two U.S. states, starting with a five-day intensive Space Camp at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Here, students will receive direct inspiration from NASA astronauts and engage in hands-on learning and interactive STEM activities. The journey will continue with a flight to Orlando, Florida, where students will visit the Kennedy Space Center and participate in additional STEM workshops. These workshops include cutting-edge topics like prosthetics development with Limbitless Solutions and a racing workshop with the University of Florida Knights Racing.

Spaces for this extraordinary educational journey are limited. Parents are encouraged to submit their expression of interest along with a AUD $2000 deposit before 04 April 2025 to secure a spot for their child in this life transforming opportunity. This experience promises not only to enhance students' understanding of STEM fields but also to inspire them to become informed, culturally-aware global citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to our global community. A detailed itinerary is available under resources on compass for this event for all eligible parents and carers to see.

For more information or to express interest, please contact our STEM teacher Mr. Rithik Kalvakuntla at rithik.kalvakuntla@education.vic.gov.au.

At "STEM: Innovator's Hub," we believe in the power of curiosity and the importance of staying informed. We are committed to bringing you the latest news, achievements, and advancements from our STEM department across the year levels. Join us as we explore the exciting world of STEM, celebrate our students' achievements, and look forward to future innovations.

So stay curious and stay connected—there's always (and already is) something new on the horizon in our STEM space at EMC!