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Biggest STEM showcase in region hits Waroona bringing more than 900 students together

Headshot of Craig Duncan
Craig DuncanHarvey-Waroona Reporter
Students from St Joesph’s School Waroona were excited to take part in this year’s phenomenal STEMathon.
Camera IconStudents from St Joesph’s School Waroona were excited to take part in this year’s phenomenal STEMathon. Credit: Craig Duncan Harvey-Waroona Reporter

When you think of robotic dogs, VR headsets showing off the wonders of the cosmos or drones capable of surveying entire towns in a moment’s notice, you might think of the future.

But, for the students at St Joseph’s School in Waroona and eight other primary schools from across Pinjarra and Harvey, that was their Wednesday.

More than 900 students gathered at the Waroona town hall to take part in one of five inspiring Australian National Science Week events which took place last week with displays from Alcoa Australia, the Peel-Harvey Biosecurity Group, the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation, Perth Observatory, Waroona police, Waroona Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and more.

St Joseph’s School Waroona principal Michael O’Dwyer, STEM teacher Sharni Silvestri and Catholic Education WA director Wayne Bull at the Waroona STEMathon.
Camera IconSt Joseph’s School Waroona principal Michael O’Dwyer, STEM teacher Sharni Silvestri and Catholic Education WA director Wayne Bull at the Waroona STEMathon. Credit: Craig Duncan Harvey-Waroona Reporter

St Joseph’s School principal Michael O’Dwyer said the day was an “absolute, overwhelming success” which exceeded his expectations.

“I just love seeing all the children engage in these positive learning experiences,” he said.

Alcoa Australia showed off some of their chemistry skills at the Waroona STEMathon.
Camera IconAlcoa Australia showed off some of their chemistry skills at the Waroona STEMathon. Credit: Craig Duncan Harvey-Waroona Reporter

“And it’s amazing to see so many businesses come to support and help educate our children and the children of the broader community, in science, technology, engineering and maths.

“This is so important, and hands-on activities bring knowledge and real life practical applications to our kids.”

Mr O’Dwyer said the day was well supported by the community and the school’s staff with STEM teacher Shari Silvestri the driving force.

Ms Silvestri said the interactive sessions with Schlam Engineering’s LEGO Grand Master, hands-on industry exhibits, VR experiences and emergency service demonstrations were just some of the standouts of the day.

Alcoa’s robotic dog was a standout for many students at the Waroona STEMathon.
Camera IconAlcoa’s robotic dog was a standout for many students at the Waroona STEMathon. Credit: Craig Duncan Harvey-Waroona Reporter

“The energy and enthusiasm from the students and the participating organisations were inspiring, seeing so many young minds fully engaged in STEM activities, exploring new ideas, and developing their problem-solving skills, was incredible,” she said.

“The event has grown significantly, and witnessing the community come together to support such an important initiative was terrific.

“The Game Design workshop with Phoebe Watson was also a big hit, particularly among the older students.”

Ms Silvestri said she was already thinking about how they could make the 2025 event even bigger and better.

“We hope to introduce even more interactive exhibits and workshops, expand our outreach to include additional schools from the surrounding regions and bring in new STEM professionals to share their expertise and inspire the next generation,” she said.

“It (the event) helps uncloak complex concepts and makes learning fun and accessible.

“More importantly, it will enable students to see the practical applications of what they learn in the classroom, sparking their curiosity and potentially inspiring future careers in STEM fields.

“For many students, especially those in regional areas, this might be their first exposure to such advanced technology and ideas, making it an invaluable experience.”

The Peel-Harvey Biosecurity Group taught students about native and invasive species at the Waroona STEMathon.
Camera IconThe Peel-Harvey Biosecurity Group taught students about native and invasive species at the Waroona STEMathon. Credit: Craig Duncan Harvey-Waroona Reporter

Catholic Education WA director Wayne Bull said he was impressed so many schools and community groups got together to help kids on this journey exposing them to STEM.

“We know when children are happy and feel safe they will excel, and this is an environment where children will thrive,” he said.

“A small school like St Joseph’s is punching above its weight.”

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