Program Overview
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) is an excellence elective subject running in year 7 through to year 10. The core educational philosophy of this subject is to challenge thinking and stimulate problem-based learning for all students.
STEM skills are in high demand in the workforce. From the year 2000 to 2020 employment in STEM occupations grew by 85.0% which was more than twice as fast as non-STEM occupations (40.2%) (source: National Skills commission 2021). This demand is projected to continue increasing in the future.
To help our students in STEM develop their ability to use STEM to critically evaluate and develop innovate our STEM units are inquiry based and linked to real world issues in areas such as coding and robotics, ecology and environmental science, food science, engineering, sustainability and many others.
STEM at Ipswich SHS has a dedicated building with purpose-built makerspaces and computer labs. This alongside the traditional science labs and resources in technology and robotics (including 3D printers, Lego robotics, micro bits and Arduino).
Students develop skills in a continuum over the four years Projects from year 7-10 have increasing levels of complexity and technical expertise. The students also develop the ability to communicate their ideas and findings when they present their projects to their peers, the school and in external competitions.
Junior School
Students wishing to follow a STEM pathway chose the STEM elective in years 7-10. The skills developed in this program enrich the skills developed in their core studies of mathematics and science.
Senior School
In senior school students with a passion for STEM can chose from a wide range of options including Physics, Biology Chemistry, and Engineering. Students wishing to follow a STEM career care encouraged to chode a high level of mathematics (Math Methods and specialist for student with a high level of aptitude for mathematics)
Community Partnerships/Sponsors
The STEM program throughout each year partners with a wide range of to give students an understanding of how STEM skills fit into the world beyond schools these include University of QLD, University of Southern QLD and QUT. Partnering with STEM providers such as Women in Engineering, STEM punks, CSIRO and Wonders of Science and a range of industry partners.
Enrolment
Students enrol in the program by choosing the STEM elective in years 7-10. This includes students committing to completing the set projects and following all safety protocols.
Enquiries
For further information about the STEM program at Ipswich State High School please contact Head of Department, Shannon Walsh for further information on swals60@eq.edu.au
