STEMfooty is looking to inspire the next generation of future scientists, engineers and statisticians, with registrations for their 2022 program now open.
The 10-week in-school program for Year 7 students combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences to increase student understanding of and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.
The free program is closely aligned to the curriculum, covering half of the ACARA content descriptors for both science and maths in one term.
More than 3,500 students have participated in the program in 2021.
Students at St Columba College participated in the program this year and teacher Aadrian Vollebregt said the results had been amazing.
“There has been a 90 per cent increase in knowledge of STEM, but more importantly a 43 per cent increase in interest in studying STEM in high school,” Vollebregt said.
“It’s not just about teaching them now but instilling a passion for STEM that they take forward with them.
“It gave the students a real-world application that maths wasn’t just something we do in the classroom.”
STEMfooty Manager Katie Gloede said there were a limited number of spots available in the program throughout the year.
“With year seven public school students transitioning to high school next year, we have more opportunities than ever before to be part of the program,” Gloede said.
“Research tells that year seven is the stage when young people are making decisions whether they should continue to pursue STEM studies.
“We are especially keen to get more schools from low-socioeconomic areas who would really benefit from a program like this.”
Interested schools are encouraged to register their interest by contacting stemfooty@afc.com.au
STEMfooty is proudly delivered by the Adelaide Crows Foundation https://www.afc.com.au/community
