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Issue 8 : December 2023

As the 2023 school year draws to a close, we reflect on a busy but wonderful year championing science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) learning in so many ways. We thank the teachers, STEM professionals, program volunteers, parents, students, industry and university partners, and supporters of all kinds who have connected with CSIRO Education this year.

We welcome a well-earned break, but not without celebrating some recent achievements in term 4 and a look ahead at several opportunities in early 2024. From all at CSIRO Education, we wish you well over the school holidays, and look forward to connecting with you again next year.

Don't miss out!

Final call for Adult Future Shapers

Applications for the 2024 intake of Future Shapers ends at midnight this Friday, 15 December! You could be winging your way to an opportunity somewhere in the country or setting your students up with a tailored resource pack or event. Get recognised for helping young people build skills like curiosity and problem solving, and co-design your own prize.

Apply now!

Program news

Now available: Advanced CREST e-module

Creativity in Research, Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST) is a national education program that develops teachers' and K-12 students' STEM skills based on an inquiry approach to teaching and learning. Following the launch of the Introduction to CREST e-module, teachers can now access an Advanced CREST e-module. The new e-module is linked above and outlines the essential criteria required to achieve a Silver or Gold CREST Award.

Can you host an intern in the biomedical research industry?

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) program is seeking sponsors and supervisors from the Victorian biomedical industry to support UROP undergraduate student interns in 2024. By hosting a student intern, supervisors invest in the next generation of biomedical researchers and the future of Australia’s biomedical workforce. Please visit the website for more information and to get in touch.

Generation STEM students address everyday challenges

Over 970 students from 46 high schools in Queanbeyan-Palerang and Yass Valley, Western and Central Sydney, and Dubbo recently presented the solutions of their inquiry-based research projects at end-of-year showcases. As part of the STEM Community Partnerships Program, students developed solutions to challenges within their communities such as cybersecurity, biodiversity and heat stress, housing, and worker shortages. Find out more about STEM CPP via the link above.

Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy

There's still time to enrol Year 8 students into the Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy for 2024. Through the Academy, young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women can access custom STEM experiences, mentorship, brokerage, peer connections and support in a culturally safe and nurturing environment. Send the team an enquiry to find out more about this award-winning program.

Unique teacher professional learning opportunity

For teachers: 2024 Astronomy Workshop in Parkes

CSIRO Space and Astronomy are running a three-day teacher astronomy workshop at our Parkes Observatory from Friday 3 – Sunday 5 May 2024. Participants will meet astronomers and astronomy education experts, tour the telescope, and learn about some of the latest discoveries in space. Grow confident in teaching astronomical concepts, and learn how to run a viewing night and incorporate real data in the classroom. No background or training in astronomy is required. Bookings are limited - find out more by clicking the link above.

Need gift ideas? Check out these stocking stuffers!

CSIRO Publishing special offer

If you’ve been making a list and checking it twice, check out these great stocking stuffers for science lovers! CSIRO Publishing have a book for everyone from bird nerds to botany buffs and kids who love nature. Score festive discounted prices, and for a limited time all book orders over $80 will enjoy free standard shipping within Australia and New Zealand. Place your order before 17 December online.

Double Helix discount

Are you searching for the perfect present for 8-14 year olds to inspire a love of STEM? A subscription to Double Helix magazine can help make science their superpower! With a special discount, you can give the gift that keeps giving all year round.

Latest news from CSIRO Education

Deadly in Generation STEM unites science, culture, and growth

Some things are best explored on Country. Among them? How to bring together ancient wisdom and modern science in a powerful affirmation of culture and identity. The Deadly in Generation STEM camp offered 17 Aboriginal students from the Illawarra region learning activities ranging from astronomy and coding drones, to bush medicine, dancing, and bush regeneration.

Scientist's Antarctica work trip becomes a learning opportunity

Students aged kinder to year 6 enjoyed a virtual tour of Antarctica's Casey Station, and a question time with CSIRO's Dr Ann Stavert live from the field! Find out how a 30-minute call can have a lasting impact for students learning about STEM subjects and career possibilities. Dr Ann Stavert is partnered with teacher Lisa MacDonald through the STEM Professionals in Schools program.

One step at a time: a Future Shaper sets out to change the world

As a 2023 STEM Together Future Shaper, educator Lizz Hills chose to equip schools to learn about earth science. She trekked across Australia and ignited students’ imagination and interest in science and their ability to problem solve.

Conversation on Country connects culture and science

CSIRO recently hosted some 80 Pilbara educators, Elders, scientists and students for The Living STEM program showcase. This inaugural event was a vibrant and culturally-rich showcase of hands-on, two-way science learning programs from schools across the west Pilbara region. The program supports remote schools and communities to connect cultural knowledge with the Australian STEM curriculum.