In a first for two Cloncurry schools, robots have invaded their classrooms last week, though in a good way.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Cloncurry State School P-12 and St Joseph’s Catholic School students were taking part in workshop called "Beakers.Bots.Build" put together by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy aimed at encouraging their interest in science, technology engineering and maths subjects.
It’s the first time this workshop has been hosted in Cloncurry and is the first ever QMEA event for St Joseph’s, which recently came on board as one of 60 QMEA schools throughout the state.
This program combines a number of challenge-based activities linked to the discipline of engineering.
The practical tasks are designed for Year-9 students and are linked to current classroom learning. Students work in teams to solve problems, plan, diagnose, analyse and construct.
Each task is designed to encourage students to pursue further studies in maths and science in preparation for a STEM university pathway.
Challenges are based on chemical processing, robotics and programming, environmental practices and design and engineering.
The widely-acclaimed workshops were also conducted at Spinifex State College in Mount Isa last week.
“These workshops also play an important role in exposing students to the technology used by the resources sector, and the many different career paths available,” said Glencore’s Stephanie Jackson.
“South32 is also delighted to be part of these workshops and support the QMEA, which plays an important role in helping us to engage directly with students about careers, particularly girls and Indigenous students,” said South32’s Vice President of Operations Cannington Rob Jackson.
St Joseph’s Principal Judy Bell said the school was excited to become a QMEA school and looked forward to the opportunities it would bring for its students. “Our teachers will also be able to access valuable teacher professional development delivered through the QMEA programs,” she said.
The QMEA is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.
The Queensland resources sector provides one in every five dollars in the Queensland economy, sustains one in eight Queensland jobs, and supports more than 15,400 businesses.
READ ALSO: Tommy Senden reflects on 30 years of nursing
While you re here subscribe to our weekly email to your inbox 6am every Friday