PROFILE
Kingsgrove North High School
How STEM is changing the way students learn
Pictured above: Students show their teacher a product they've made using the 3D laser printer in their new innovation hub – Images courtesy of Kingsgrove North High School, NSW
By Angelo Stasos, Principal, Kingsgrove North High School, NSW
creativity and divergent thinking, to motivate and inspire young people to generate new ideas.
As the world of work changes, the skills taught and the learning that takes place must also change.
Science gives learners an in-depth understanding of the world around them, and STEM provides students the opportunity to become better at research and critical thinking. Technology prepares young people to work in an environment full of high-tech innovations and constantly evolving fields. Engineering allows students to enhance problem-solving skills and apply knowledge in new projects and Mathematics enables students to interpret and understand data better, helping them to make more informed decisions. STEM education thus links these disciplines into a cohesive structure.
The knowledge generated in the education system is widening and the skills demanded by employers are growing so, at Kingsgrove North High School (KNHS), we are embracing the limitations schools face by prioritising science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This innovative subject is paving the way for contemporary teaching and learning and, as we at KNHS see education constantly evolving we too, need to foster
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With a focus on practice and innovation, inquiry-based assessments, teamwork, and collaboration, students are free to explore and embrace flexibility and curiosity, while undertaking project-based learning activities. As ME Program Director and author of the NSW Stage 5 iSTEM Curriculum, Dr Scott Sleap explains: STEM teaches students how to problem solve in the real world. This is where project-based learning comes in as a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively engage in real-world challenges and develop deeper insight into effective strategies that solve problems. KNHS has been paving the way in the delivery of STEM, not only within our school
EDUCATION
but also through networking in our local community. Over the past three years, we invested heavily in resources, upgraded facilities, and delivered an inclusive program with nine neighbouring primary schools.
Initial Planning and Ideas Our journey towards futurefocused learning began in 2016 when the STEM initiative proposal was first introduced as a trial with a focus group of volunteer students. The initial response was very positive, students were engaged, enthusiastic, and came away from the ten-week experience wanting even more. Term 2, 2022 | school-news.com.au
