A TIME TO HONOUR SACRIFICE
STEAM power has been used for centuries in many different ways. But now a STEAM program in schools is giving power to students
ST HILDA’s girls are embracing the new STEAM learning program available for students from Years 3-6.
STEAM covers many topics including science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics and has 20
programs available. Each program aims to teach students to think critically and use engineering or technology in imaginative designs, or creative approaches to realworld problems – while building on students’ maths and science knowledge.
St Hilda’s recognises the values of women, and encourages girls to not only be a part of the future, but become leaders of it.
Grade 5 student Summer Osborne is using the STEAM program to create her own soundtrack to different animations.
“STEAM is really fun and the best thing is seeing my work finished at the end to show at the STEAMfair,” she said.
Fourteen weeks of work are required for the students’ projects, which will be showcased at the STEAMfair, where they will be available for students and parents to see.
Various projects that students have been working on are composing musical scores for animated movies, designing and creating arcade games, product development and entrepreneurialism, edible gardens/composting – reducing waste, and coding robots in French.
Head of Junior School, Tracey Maynard said the girls got a strong foundation in real life opportunities and their problem-solving approach.
“One of the important things is that students get the opportunities to explore the links between all the areas of the STEAM disciplines,” Mrs Maynard said. “Some of the resources can be as simple as rubber bands, to using 3D printers, robotics equipment, animation, hardware and software program and laser-cut jewellery.
“We also have the STEAM building, which enhances the progress and achievement of the program.”
Research suggests that one of the best ways to influence gender equality in STEAMbased futures is to provide young women with great opportunities at a young age.