New equipment sees St Joseph’s begin new STEM program for students in Kindergarten, pre-primary and Year 1

Students at a local primary school are set to have improved skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics as the institution builds up its capacity through grant funding. Pupils at St Joseph’s Primary School in Waroona will benefit from new robotics equipment and other specialised supplies which have recently been delivered to school grounds. It will be used in the rollout of a new STEM program for students in Kindergarten, Pre-primary and Year 1. The new equipment will also help students in Years 2 to 6 who have been selected for St Joseph’s Enrichment Program. School principal Michael O’Dwyer said STEM skills were becoming increasingly important as technology advancements affect the world of work. “We aim to build a bank of equipment that supports ongoing program implementation, including more robotics and supplies for STEM loose parts play in the younger grades,” he said. The new equipment is partially funded through the school’s successful application to the Alcoa Waroona Micro Grant Fund made earlier this year. “The funding support will empower our students to explore, experiment and create, allowing them to enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for career and life success,” Mr O’Dwyer said. AWMGF is a partnership between the Shire and Alcoa to support local groups with building organisational capacity and their ability to deliver projects or events to benefit the community. Wagerup refinery community relations manager Tom Busher said the program would support STEM skill development within the company’s potential future workforce. “We hope the new LEGO Prime Robotics kits equip students with the design and coding skills required to successfully showcase their robots at a regional robotics event later this year,” Mr Busher said. Waroona Shire president Mike Walmsley said he was very supportive of the school’s endeavor. “Part of the fund’s purpose is to have long-lasting impact for the community and the equipment will be used ongoingly,” he said. “I think it is a great project to have for current and future students.” The next round of grant funding opens for applications in June. For more information, visit waroona.wa.gov.au/grants.