Local school kids will learn to build robots, write code, push the limits of human-powered vehicles, and travel across the world off the back of nearly $150,000 in federal funding for advancing scientific learning.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic announced the sponsorship grants while visiting Clifton Hills Primary school in Kelmscott on Tuesday.
“We want Aussie kids to embrace science,” he said.
“Students will learn skills in engineering and coding that are the building blocks of everything from robots to rovers.”
“We expect these science projects to build teamwork, encourage problem solving and teach kids more about the power of science.”
Clifton Hills has received a grant to support 20 students to participate in the first Lego League regional tournament, where they will design and build a Lego robot.
They will also learn to write the code that will enable the robot to complete missions.
Brookman Primary School and Rehoboth Christian College were also funded $14,000 and $15,000 respectively to participate in the tournament.
A total of 132 grants between $1,500 and $15,000 are being awarded to schools across Australia to enable students – who might not otherwise have had the opportunity – to engage in cutting edge science.
The funding is aimed at encouraging Australian students to consider a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in the future.
Armadale High School and Carey Baptist College received $15,000 each to enter teams into the WA Pedal Prix Series.
Armadale High students will also get the chance to take part in this year’s WARP Robotics competition thanks to a $12,200 grant.
And South Thornlie Primary School will get in on the robot revolution with a $3,200 injection into their robotics program.
Meanwhile, Rehoboth Christian College students will have a plethora of opportunities to delve into science with grant funding awarded to the school for a conservation expedition to Indonesia, and participation in a national titration competition, Game Changers Awards, and the It Takes A Spark Conference.
Member for Burt Matt Keogh was excited about the opportunities these grants opened up for local kids.
“When it comes to competitions for science and robotics, our community always punches above our weight and it’s fantastic to see we’re being rewarded for it, with more than $143,000 federal funding going towards awesome projects underway right here in Armadale and Gosnells,” he said.
“Seeing local kids excelling at robotics and competing in STEM competitions is so exciting, they’re already skilling up for real world jobs of today and the future.
“Learning isn’t just about sitting around in the classroom, I congratulate our local schools for leading the way here in keeping kids engaged and excited about learning.”
The Sponsorship Grants 2024 is an initiative delivered under the Inspiring Australia – Science Engagement Program.
