Schools lag in STEM uptake
TOWNSVILLE Year 12 students are studying science and mathematics at slightly lower rates when compared to students across the state.
Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority chief executive Chris Rider said about 95 per cent of Year 12 students in Townsville schools are studying at least one STEM subject, numbering 2101.
The proportion of Year 12 students in Queensland studying at least one STEM subject is 97 per cent, with the total at 51,849.
Education Minister Simon Birmingham renewed the push for emphasis on STEM subjects when he addressed the Australian Science Teachers Association annual conference.
“It’s disappointing that data shows over the last couple of decades there’s been a steady decline in relation to the proportion of Australian students studying high level … maths and a decline in relation to the proportion of students studying in science subjects, and that’s just unacceptable,” he said.
St Patrick’s College principal Paulina Skerman said the school wanted to bridge the gap between men and women in STEM subjects.
“Defying trends elsewhere, the number of girls pursuing science at St Patrick’s College Townsville has increased significantly over the past three years,” she said.
“The college has also been named a finalist in the 2018 Australian Education Awards for Best STEM Program.
“St Patrick’s College offers an innovative curriculum and a strong commitment to ongoing teacher professional learning.”
Ms Skerman said the college offered a range of advanced science and maths subjects to nurture students in their study, and provides programs such as STEM Trek USA, Coding Club and the Think Ladies STEM Club.
“The STEM program is supported by a group of specialist teachers who are highly qualified and award- winning experts in their fields,” she said.
“St Patrick’s College offers an innovative curriculum and a strong commitment to ongoing teacher professional learning.”
A Department of Education spokesman said there more than 1000 teachers in Queensland schools teaching STEM subjects.
“The Queensland Government recognises the importance of STEM subjects for preparing today’s students for the jobs of the future,” he said.
“The Department of Education has a number of key initiatives to encourage students to participate in STEM subjects and also to attract more STEM teachers to Queensland state schools.”