Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is an over-arching approach to teaching that increases student interest in STEM-related fields and improves students’ problem-solving and critical analysis skills. Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê’s College for Girls has a long tradition of cross-disciplinary programs of study, and STEM continues to have a strong focus in the curriculum. This focus aligns to Australia’s National STEM school Education Strategy that sets two key goals for STEM education:
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê’s College sets high expectations for all students to engage with STEM subjects. Science and mathematics are a mandatory components of the curriculum from Years 7 to 10 and are selected as elective subjects in Years 11 and 12. Technology is compulsory in Years 7 and 8 and is selected as an elective subject in Years 9 to 12.
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê’s College strives to create a school culture where STEM is recognised and valued. This is important because employment in professional, scientific and technical services are predicted to increase. Research has highlighted inequities that currently exist in STEM. Girls, students from low socio-economic status backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and students from non-metropolitan areas can be less likely to engage with STEM education and therefore have a higher risk of not developing high capabilities in STEM-related skills.
The College exposes students to a range of career options and information to help increase STEM aspirations and engagement. This is achieved through
