National Science Week

Unleash your inner scientist: get ready for an exciting Science Week!

Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder as Girton gears up to celebrate an exhilarating Science Week from 14 to 18 August. 

Science Week is a time when the magic of science comes alive at Girton. It's a week-long celebration where students, teachers and even parents get to dive into the realms of biology, chemistry, physics and more. This year's theme, 'Artificial Intelligence', invites everyone to tap into their curiosity and creativity, and embrace the spirit of exploration.

This annual event is packed with activities that will make you think, question and, most importantly, have fun! Prepare to be amazed, inspired and entertained.

JUNIOR SCHOOL COLOURING COMPETITION

Students in Junior School are invited to participate in a colouring competition. Entries are available at Junior School reception and should be returned by Friday 11 August.

SENIOR SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

English and Art Competitions 

For the English Competition, students are asked to write a short story of no more than 300 words about a dystopian future where Artificial Intelligence has taken over the world. 

For the Art Competition, students may depict Artificial Intelligence using any medium they wish. There is no sub-theme; however, students can choose the same sub-theme as English if they wish. 

Submissions are due to either Ms Beckwith or Mr Edwards on Thursday 10 August. For both competitions, it should be pointed out that Artificial Intelligence can not be used to generate their piece. Students will have an opportunity to use Artificial Intelligence during the daily competitions held throughout the week.

Virtual escape room 

On Monday 14 August at lunchtime, students are invited to participate in a virtual escape room in N14. To register for this, students should email Ms Beckwith.

Philosophy debate  

On Tuesday 15 August at lunchtime, students interested in philosophy will have an opportunity to discuss the ethics of Artificial Intelligence with Mr McGauran.

National Science Quiz with Charlie Pickering

The National Science Quiz is a celebration of science that aims to inspire the next generation of Australia’s leading scientists. From quantum computing and AI to electronics and semiconductors; aerospace and automotive engineering to biotech and robotics; climate change and agriculture to renewable wind and solar energy – our future depends on science.

Join host Charlie Pickering from ABC TV’s The Weekly, special guest team captains and two teams of exceptional scientific minds who will battle it out live on stage to be crowned National Science Quiz champions … or be slimed!

Register now and play along live with the quiz for your chance to win cash prizes. Secondary schools can enter one or more teams and compete for the $1000 schools prize.

When: Sunday 27 August at 3.30pm (AEST)

Where: The Capitol (Melbourne) and livestreamed

Cost: (Online) FREE; (In-person audience) Under 18 years – FREE. 18 years of age and above – $12  

WHOLE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Special guest speakers and experts

We're thrilled to announce that we'll be hosting some incredible guest speakers and experts throughout the week. We have biomedical scientists from The University of Melbourne zooming in to some classes and guests from Monash, LaTrobe and local industries visiting Girton to inspire students to dream big and pursue their passions in the world of science.

Science Fair – Thursday 16 August, 5pm to 6:30pm (Naunton Family Building)

Science Week isn't just for students! We invite parents and families to join us for an unforgettable Science Fair.  

Student work from across both the Junior and Senior School will be on display, giving students the opportunity to showcase their innovative projects and share their scientific findings with the entire school. From colouring competitions, solar system models, VCE scientific posters and atom models, our budding scientists are sure to impress you with their creativity and ingenuity.

You can browse stalls from universities and local industry groups, and the Discovery Centre will perform a show at 6pm in the Lecture Theatre. 

Girton’s new Lumination Learning Lab will be open for all to come and try with virtual reality scientific fun! You can complete a space walk on the international space station, dissect a virtual frog or take an adventure into the human body.

Get ready to ignite your curiosity!

Mark your calendars for the 14 to 18 August and prepare to embark on a journey of scientific exploration like never before. Whether you're a budding scientist, a curious learner, or simply someone who loves to be amazed, Science Week at Girton promises an unforgettable experience for all.

For more information and updates, visit the National Science Week Astra page or contact Ms Prue Beckwith.

See you at Science Week!