Students land home after Space CampFour Aboriginal students from 2 South Australian schools have returned to earth after experiencing life in space.

The students and 2 teachers experienced the trip of a lifetime during a week-long immersion in an American space camp in Huntsville, Alabama in the United States.

As part of the trip, the group built and launched rockets, used astronaut-training equipment and conducted a simulated space shuttle mission.

While there, they stayed in ‘space habitats’, which mimic sleeping conditions on the International Space Station; participated in and excelled at engineering challenges, such as rocket building and water purification; and undertook training similar to that of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts on acceptance into the space program.

The 4 lucky students were Piper and Ashley from Woodville High School and Tyson and Kiara from Playford International College who were accompanied by teachers Sam Tuffnell and Sue Elderfield who had their own special educators’ space camp experience.

Along with guided tours of museums and exhibits by retired NASA scientists, they were given the chance to meet and ask questions of Don Thomas, one of the most decorated astronauts in NASA’s history.

Piper, Ashley, Kiara and Tyson were the only Australians among 100 other year 8 students with the remainder coming from the United States and United Kingdom.

Piper said that “participating in awesome activities and meeting heaps of new friends from all over world was the best thing about space camp”.

“It showed me how science and maths are used in the real-world, not just the classroom. Talking to a real-life astronaut was really cool, too.”

Forty-five teachers participated and through their own space camp experience they were able to exchange ideas and hear about how STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is taught in other countries.

Sam said that immersion in the space camp environment was a chance to remember where STEM skills can lead.

“We saw the real-world benefits and spoke with experts about how they built space shuttles, the problems they faced and how they solved them – it was amazing”, he said.

Sue said it showed her how science and maths are used in the real world, not just the classroom.

“A whole range of possibilities have opened up – if we can manage the time differences we are really keen to skype each other’s classes.”

(Continued overpage...)

Program UpdateThe South Australian Advanced Technology Project (ATP) is a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and state governments that aims to increase the number of students studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The ATP is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Defence and managed by the Department for Education and Child Development.

In the last edition, we announced that the Centre for Defence Industry Capability would be reviewing the program. While awaiting the review outcome, we will continue to evaluate and improve our existing program by incorporating a new funding model for 2017.

We are confident that the excellent results achieved over the life of the project will be recognised and we will continue to advance this project, which has helped develop and support a positive STEM culture in South Australian schools.

EDITOR Pam Gerrard pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

09I S S U E

O C T O B E R2 0 1 6

Space Campers (Left to right): Piper Harvey, Kiara Tilmouth-Presley,

Tyson Evans and Ashley Tong

Social Media and ATP SchoolsWith many of our ATP schools publishing social media and video links to showcase their innovative STEM curriculum and projects we felt it was time to start a new communiqué. Use the new ATP QR code to easily access our Moodle site and electronic newsletters.

This month we are featuring;

Hallett Cove School, Year 10 students and Newtonian physics at ASE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”&HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”feature=youtube

Henley High School and Year 9 Innovative Water Pumps https://www.facebook.com/DECD.SA/videos/621286691380529/

Hallett Cove Robotics Club Sea Perch Competition http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s4538784.htm

Henley High School and STEM Connections: Illustrations of Practice https://publish.viostream.com/play/w9iaf6bo1b9em

Nanotechnology under the microscope – a teacher’s perspectiveThrough the ATP ‘Teacher in Residence’ program, Playford International College teacher Tan Sood was able to contact specialists in the field of nanotechnology and look into the subject with students.

As part of the Advanced Technology Project, Teacher in Residence program I decided to explore the topic of nanotechnology.

Through the program I was able to make contact with Dr Kamil Zuber and Dr Aidan Cousins from the University of South Australia.

Dr Zuber is a Research Associate who is currently studying superhydrophobic coatings for automotive windscreens.

Dr Cousins has research interests in magnetic nanoparticles and medical physics. For his PhD, Dr Cousins’ research focused on the spread of cancer through the body and how to provide surgeons with accurate information about the disease.

Both Dr Zuber and Dr Cousins have focused their research on nanotechnology.

During Term 2, as a part of the school’s STEM curriculum, I conducted a four-week program on nanotechnology with my year 9 and year 11 chemistry students where they explored issues including:

• exploringnanotechnologyasanemergingarea of science and its impact on our lives

• examiningnanoparticlesandhowtheydifferfrom normal-sized particles

• investigatingthevariousapplicationsofnanotechnology and the ethical issues associated with the use of nanoparticles.

As a class activity students focused on water repelling chemistry associated with nanoparticles. Students compared the properties of two types of sand: regular and magic. They looked at the behaviours of the sand using water and other organic solvents and came to the conclusion that unlike normal sand, magic sand has a hydrophobic surface that repels water. The students built on this concept and learned that many materials can be water repellent if coated with certain types of nanocomposite coatings.

Dr Cousins delivered a fascinating presentation on nanotechnology and its applications in the real world that had the students captivated.

I would like to thank Dr Aidan Cousins, Dr Kamil Zuber, Nat Scherer and Celina Bolding for taking the time out of their schedules to present and organise the course for my students.

Tan Sood Playford International College

Students working with ‘magic’ sand

Dr Cousins and Tan

Dr Zuber - Atmospheric plasma chamber for thin film nanocomposite coatings

National Science WeekGleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events and challenges. A free standing Roman arch that supported 1.2 kg before collapsing and a straw bridge supporting a dynamic weight of 2.2 kg achieved first place.

Gleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events. Students in years 8 and 9 participated in a series of science and engineering challenges, ranging from building bridges and rescue devices, to constructing and testing bungee cords, Roman arches and flat-pack chairs. The students worked in small groups to complete the set tasks, which were judged by students from the STEM Society.

Students and staff were also challenged during their morning care group sessions with a series of questions covering a range of scientific disciplines and general knowledge areas. Prizes were awarded to both students and staff. Questions ranged from: ‘When you hit your funny bone, what are you actually hitting?’ and ‘When a material is freeze-dried, water is extracted bypassing which of its states of matter?’ through to ‘The moon with the most active volcanoes in our solar system orbits which planet?’

[Answers: The ulnar nerve, liquid (sublimation) and Jupiter]

Richard Sellers STEM and ATP Manager

[Students land home after Space Camp] from page 1

“Students will be able to experience what it’s like to be in a classroom in the United States and United Kingdom and vice versa, and we will be able to look to work together to implement engaging ways to further develop students’ STEM skills”, she said.

The students and teachers extend their thanks to the Advanced Technology Project for supporting the trip and special thanks to the Northrup Grumman Corporation, which provided the funding.

3D printing on showThe 3D Printing Competition was held again this year and entries were on display at the Royal Adelaide Show.

The Advanced Technology Project (ATP), in collaboration with the Royal Adelaide Show, runs the competition, which includes all secondary schools in South Australia, not just ATP and/or government schools.

Entries were exhibited in the Advanced Technology Pavilion along with the F1 in Schools competition.

The standard of entries was excellent and included a maze, sundial and scissors.

WinnersSculpture Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Shan Gopuran, Prescott College Southern

Sculpture Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Sandy Wu, Walford Anglican School for Girls

Functional Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Vincent Stephenson 2nd Prize: Oakly Andary, Prescott College Southern 3rd Prize: Jared Bird, Seaview High School

Function Object Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Elijah Schutz, Pedare Christian College 2nd Prize: Isobel Cassidy, Pedare Christian College 3rd Prize: Thomas Montague, Pedare Christian College

Mechanical Moving Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Luke Williams, Seaview High School 2nd Prize: Angus Pointon, Minlaton District School 3rd Prize: Caleb Tutton, Seaview High School

The ATP and Royal Adelaide Show look forward to more student entries next year. For more information contact Pam Gerrard at pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

Hallett Cove takes on SeaPerch challengeTwo teams from the Hallett Cove Robotics Club, based at Hallett Cove R-12 School, recently took part in the SeaPerch underwater robotics challenge, held at Louisiana State University in the United States.

The club’s focus is to engage students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in an informal environment after school hours. The club teaches students the basics of microprocessor programming using STEMSEL and Arduino microprocessors, and encourages students to use these microprocessors in projects of their own choosing.

In 2015 the club became aware of the SeaPerch program in the United States. The SeaPerch is a small submersible vehicle built cheaply with PVC pipe and 12 volt hobby motors. Members of the club formed teams of two and with the help of a local hardware store, built several SeaPerches. The teams then spent time modifying and testing their vehicles so that they could complete various underwater tasks, including an obstacle course and ball retrieval. Microprocessors were also added to control the speed and depth of the vehicles.

In January 2016 the teams went to Flinders University for the inaugural Australian SeaPerch Challenge. They presented their designs to the

judges from the ASC as well as competing in a variety of underwater challenges. The winners were then eligible to compete in the United States National SeaPerch Challenge held at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The squad of two teams sent by the club went by the name of The Sea Dragons, after the local indigenous aquatic creatures. In Baton Rouge they competed against nearly 200 other teams from across the United States. The students spent considerable time comparing vehicles and ideas with the other competitors, who were very interested in the use of the microprocessor control. The two teams, VACUUM and AUSV Searcher, did very well, finishing in 5th and 6th place in the Open Class.

Don Eickhoff Coordinator Hallett Cove Robotics Club www.hallettcoverobotics.club

Navigating their wayA STEM (science technology, engineering and mathematics) day at LeFevre High School culminated in a boat race, with models produced by students racing against the clock in a purpose-built water channel.

LeFevre High School hosted the STEM day in cooperation with the Defence Industry Pathway Program (DIPP9) and TAFE SA’s Regency campus.

Fourteen DIPP students from 10 schools were involved in 3D modelling and 3D printing once a week for a semester, with TAFE SA lecturer Anthony Tonkin and co-teacher from Le Fevre, Eddie Grzeskowiak.

The STEM day kicked off with a session by Naval Engineering teacher and Advanced Technical Project Manager, Thierry Herman. The lecture covered the topics of buoyancy, the Archimedes’ Principle, hydrodynamics, stability principles and active stability systems, such as the ones found on air warfare destroyers. It finished with naval engineering and design, specifically, the shape and function of hulls.

Students went on to shape a hull from foam and compared its true displacement with the value calculated. This was achieved through collecting data and using Simpson’s method in 3D to calculate the volume of complex shapes.

After lunch, students worked with Anthony and Eddie to put into practice what they had learnt earlier in the day and produced model boats of various shapes and designs.

Next came the boat race, with data subsequently analysed to observe the correlation between the shape of the hull and performance.

The day was a great success and boosted students’ understanding of STEM skills and their influence on future career opportunities, including defence industries.

The speed: ludicrousThe raw speed of Henley High School’s entry in the F1 in Schools program, Ludicrous Speed, was rewarded with a wild card entry into the national titles to be held in conjunction with the Melbourne Grand Prix in March 2017.

F1 in Schools is a ‘Re-Engineering Australia’ program where students design and build a CO2 racing car from scratch. With the use of digital technologies for the design and manufacture of the vehicle, it is powered by a CO2 canister similar to that used to make soft drinks at home.

This year was the first time Henley High participated in the F1 in Schools competition, which is judged at the Royal Adelaide Show, with the team achieving some excellent results.

Mr Barrett led the team of Alex Dawes, Amy Holland, Blake Robertson and Riley Nicolle through a rigorous development program and produced a very fast car.

The team took part in the Professional Class, which is the top level of the racing program. It is more common to begin at the entry level and develop the program over a period of several years.

The students designed and built a series of cars that were progressively more advanced

and sophisticated, culminating in the high-tech racer that was developed for race day. As part of the development program the students designed wheel packages, and designed and tested wing configurations and a variety of axle and bearing configurations. The team was also required to build a pit display, seek sponsors and record their ‘F1 journey’ in a detailed folio.

Despite some substantial time penalties distributed by the judges during the scrutineering process, the results were impressive for a first time entry and included: • Fastestreactionspeedrun• Oneofthefastestrecordedrunsinpractice• Secondfastestrecordedrun• Thirdoverall

The judges awarded Ludicrous Speed a wild card entry to the nationals – a wonderful result!

A lot to learnIt may have taken just five weeks to build, but ‘Sir Lance a Little’ – Pedare Christian College’s entry into the FIRST® Robotics Competition – gave the students experiences that will last a lifetime.

In March this year, a small team of Pedare middle and senior school students competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition at Sydney’s Olympic Park Centre.

In this large-scale competition Pedare competed against 50 other teams from around the world, including the United States, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China and Australia.

As a rookie team, Pedare was in the unique situation of knowing very little about the competition. However, robot ‘Sir Lance a Little’ did an admirable job, ranking 20th by the end of the competition.

In the five weeks of construction, Pedare’s STEM teacher, Emil Zankov, worked with a small team of middle and senior school students.

“As the students built their robot they grew in their ability to think creatively through the use of product design. They also needed to problem

solve, work collaboratively with other students and mentors, and critically reflect on their learning and make adjustments accordingly.

“As well, students have started building a solid foundation of skills that will provide them with the opportunity to excel in the fast-paced environment of today and into the future”, says Emile.

Pedare’s entry into the competition was made possible through a funding grant from Macquarie University, which covered the entry fee and the various components needed for the competition.

http://bit.ly/PCCRobotbuild2016

Mr Emil Zankov STEM & Technology Teacher Pedare Christian College

Students land home after Space CampFour Aboriginal students from 2 South Australian schools have returned to earth after experiencing life in space.

The students and 2 teachers experienced the trip of a lifetime during a week-long immersion in an American space camp in Huntsville, Alabama in the United States.

As part of the trip, the group built and launched rockets, used astronaut-training equipment and conducted a simulated space shuttle mission.

While there, they stayed in ‘space habitats’, which mimic sleeping conditions on the International Space Station; participated in and excelled at engineering challenges, such as rocket building and water purification; and undertook training similar to that of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts on acceptance into the space program.

The 4 lucky students were Piper and Ashley from Woodville High School and Tyson and Kiara from Playford International College who were accompanied by teachers Sam Tuffnell and Sue Elderfield who had their own special educators’ space camp experience.

Along with guided tours of museums and exhibits by retired NASA scientists, they were given the chance to meet and ask questions of Don Thomas, one of the most decorated astronauts in NASA’s history.

Piper, Ashley, Kiara and Tyson were the only Australians among 100 other year 8 students with the remainder coming from the United States and United Kingdom.

Piper said that “participating in awesome activities and meeting heaps of new friends from all over world was the best thing about space camp”.

“It showed me how science and maths are used in the real-world, not just the classroom. Talking to a real-life astronaut was really cool, too.”

Forty-five teachers participated and through their own space camp experience they were able to exchange ideas and hear about how STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is taught in other countries.

Sam said that immersion in the space camp environment was a chance to remember where STEM skills can lead.

“We saw the real-world benefits and spoke with experts about how they built space shuttles, the problems they faced and how they solved them – it was amazing”, he said.

Sue said it showed her how science and maths are used in the real world, not just the classroom.

“A whole range of possibilities have opened up – if we can manage the time differences we are really keen to skype each other’s classes.”

(Continued overpage...)

Program UpdateThe South Australian Advanced Technology Project (ATP) is a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and state governments that aims to increase the number of students studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The ATP is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Defence and managed by the Department for Education and Child Development.

In the last edition, we announced that the Centre for Defence Industry Capability would be reviewing the program. While awaiting the review outcome, we will continue to evaluate and improve our existing program by incorporating a new funding model for 2017.

We are confident that the excellent results achieved over the life of the project will be recognised and we will continue to advance this project, which has helped develop and support a positive STEM culture in South Australian schools.

EDITOR Pam Gerrard pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

09I S S U E

O C T O B E R2 0 1 6

Space Campers (Left to right): Piper Harvey, Kiara Tilmouth-Presley,

Tyson Evans and Ashley Tong

Social Media and ATP SchoolsWith many of our ATP schools publishing social media and video links to showcase their innovative STEM curriculum and projects we felt it was time to start a new communiqué. Use the new ATP QR code to easily access our Moodle site and electronic newsletters.

This month we are featuring;

Hallett Cove School, Year 10 students and Newtonian physics at ASE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”&HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”feature=youtube

Henley High School and Year 9 Innovative Water Pumps https://www.facebook.com/DECD.SA/videos/621286691380529/

Hallett Cove Robotics Club Sea Perch Competition http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s4538784.htm

Henley High School and STEM Connections: Illustrations of Practice https://publish.viostream.com/play/w9iaf6bo1b9em

Nanotechnology under the microscope – a teacher’s perspectiveThrough the ATP ‘Teacher in Residence’ program, Playford International College teacher Tan Sood was able to contact specialists in the field of nanotechnology and look into the subject with students.

As part of the Advanced Technology Project, Teacher in Residence program I decided to explore the topic of nanotechnology.

Through the program I was able to make contact with Dr Kamil Zuber and Dr Aidan Cousins from the University of South Australia.

Dr Zuber is a Research Associate who is currently studying superhydrophobic coatings for automotive windscreens.

Dr Cousins has research interests in magnetic nanoparticles and medical physics. For his PhD, Dr Cousins’ research focused on the spread of cancer through the body and how to provide surgeons with accurate information about the disease.

Both Dr Zuber and Dr Cousins have focused their research on nanotechnology.

During Term 2, as a part of the school’s STEM curriculum, I conducted a four-week program on nanotechnology with my year 9 and year 11 chemistry students where they explored issues including:

• exploringnanotechnologyasanemergingarea of science and its impact on our lives

• examiningnanoparticlesandhowtheydifferfrom normal-sized particles

• investigatingthevariousapplicationsofnanotechnology and the ethical issues associated with the use of nanoparticles.

As a class activity students focused on water repelling chemistry associated with nanoparticles. Students compared the properties of two types of sand: regular and magic. They looked at the behaviours of the sand using water and other organic solvents and came to the conclusion that unlike normal sand, magic sand has a hydrophobic surface that repels water. The students built on this concept and learned that many materials can be water repellent if coated with certain types of nanocomposite coatings.

Dr Cousins delivered a fascinating presentation on nanotechnology and its applications in the real world that had the students captivated.

I would like to thank Dr Aidan Cousins, Dr Kamil Zuber, Nat Scherer and Celina Bolding for taking the time out of their schedules to present and organise the course for my students.

Tan Sood Playford International College

Students working with ‘magic’ sand

Dr Cousins and Tan

Dr Zuber - Atmospheric plasma chamber for thin film nanocomposite coatings

National Science WeekGleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events and challenges. A free standing Roman arch that supported 1.2 kg before collapsing and a straw bridge supporting a dynamic weight of 2.2 kg achieved first place.

Gleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events. Students in years 8 and 9 participated in a series of science and engineering challenges, ranging from building bridges and rescue devices, to constructing and testing bungee cords, Roman arches and flat-pack chairs. The students worked in small groups to complete the set tasks, which were judged by students from the STEM Society.

Students and staff were also challenged during their morning care group sessions with a series of questions covering a range of scientific disciplines and general knowledge areas. Prizes were awarded to both students and staff. Questions ranged from: ‘When you hit your funny bone, what are you actually hitting?’ and ‘When a material is freeze-dried, water is extracted bypassing which of its states of matter?’ through to ‘The moon with the most active volcanoes in our solar system orbits which planet?’

[Answers: The ulnar nerve, liquid (sublimation) and Jupiter]

Richard Sellers STEM and ATP Manager

[Students land home after Space Camp] from page 1

“Students will be able to experience what it’s like to be in a classroom in the United States and United Kingdom and vice versa, and we will be able to look to work together to implement engaging ways to further develop students’ STEM skills”, she said.

The students and teachers extend their thanks to the Advanced Technology Project for supporting the trip and special thanks to the Northrup Grumman Corporation, which provided the funding.

3D printing on showThe 3D Printing Competition was held again this year and entries were on display at the Royal Adelaide Show.

The Advanced Technology Project (ATP), in collaboration with the Royal Adelaide Show, runs the competition, which includes all secondary schools in South Australia, not just ATP and/or government schools.

Entries were exhibited in the Advanced Technology Pavilion along with the F1 in Schools competition.

The standard of entries was excellent and included a maze, sundial and scissors.

WinnersSculpture Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Shan Gopuran, Prescott College Southern

Sculpture Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Sandy Wu, Walford Anglican School for Girls

Functional Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Vincent Stephenson 2nd Prize: Oakly Andary, Prescott College Southern 3rd Prize: Jared Bird, Seaview High School

Function Object Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Elijah Schutz, Pedare Christian College 2nd Prize: Isobel Cassidy, Pedare Christian College 3rd Prize: Thomas Montague, Pedare Christian College

Mechanical Moving Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Luke Williams, Seaview High School 2nd Prize: Angus Pointon, Minlaton District School 3rd Prize: Caleb Tutton, Seaview High School

The ATP and Royal Adelaide Show look forward to more student entries next year. For more information contact Pam Gerrard at pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

Hallett Cove takes on SeaPerch challengeTwo teams from the Hallett Cove Robotics Club, based at Hallett Cove R-12 School, recently took part in the SeaPerch underwater robotics challenge, held at Louisiana State University in the United States.

The club’s focus is to engage students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in an informal environment after school hours. The club teaches students the basics of microprocessor programming using STEMSEL and Arduino microprocessors, and encourages students to use these microprocessors in projects of their own choosing.

In 2015 the club became aware of the SeaPerch program in the United States. The SeaPerch is a small submersible vehicle built cheaply with PVC pipe and 12 volt hobby motors. Members of the club formed teams of two and with the help of a local hardware store, built several SeaPerches. The teams then spent time modifying and testing their vehicles so that they could complete various underwater tasks, including an obstacle course and ball retrieval. Microprocessors were also added to control the speed and depth of the vehicles.

In January 2016 the teams went to Flinders University for the inaugural Australian SeaPerch Challenge. They presented their designs to the

judges from the ASC as well as competing in a variety of underwater challenges. The winners were then eligible to compete in the United States National SeaPerch Challenge held at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The squad of two teams sent by the club went by the name of The Sea Dragons, after the local indigenous aquatic creatures. In Baton Rouge they competed against nearly 200 other teams from across the United States. The students spent considerable time comparing vehicles and ideas with the other competitors, who were very interested in the use of the microprocessor control. The two teams, VACUUM and AUSV Searcher, did very well, finishing in 5th and 6th place in the Open Class.

Don Eickhoff Coordinator Hallett Cove Robotics Club www.hallettcoverobotics.club

Navigating their wayA STEM (science technology, engineering and mathematics) day at LeFevre High School culminated in a boat race, with models produced by students racing against the clock in a purpose-built water channel.

LeFevre High School hosted the STEM day in cooperation with the Defence Industry Pathway Program (DIPP9) and TAFE SA’s Regency campus.

Fourteen DIPP students from 10 schools were involved in 3D modelling and 3D printing once a week for a semester, with TAFE SA lecturer Anthony Tonkin and co-teacher from Le Fevre, Eddie Grzeskowiak.

The STEM day kicked off with a session by Naval Engineering teacher and Advanced Technical Project Manager, Thierry Herman. The lecture covered the topics of buoyancy, the Archimedes’ Principle, hydrodynamics, stability principles and active stability systems, such as the ones found on air warfare destroyers. It finished with naval engineering and design, specifically, the shape and function of hulls.

Students went on to shape a hull from foam and compared its true displacement with the value calculated. This was achieved through collecting data and using Simpson’s method in 3D to calculate the volume of complex shapes.

After lunch, students worked with Anthony and Eddie to put into practice what they had learnt earlier in the day and produced model boats of various shapes and designs.

Next came the boat race, with data subsequently analysed to observe the correlation between the shape of the hull and performance.

The day was a great success and boosted students’ understanding of STEM skills and their influence on future career opportunities, including defence industries.

The speed: ludicrousThe raw speed of Henley High School’s entry in the F1 in Schools program, Ludicrous Speed, was rewarded with a wild card entry into the national titles to be held in conjunction with the Melbourne Grand Prix in March 2017.

F1 in Schools is a ‘Re-Engineering Australia’ program where students design and build a CO2 racing car from scratch. With the use of digital technologies for the design and manufacture of the vehicle, it is powered by a CO2 canister similar to that used to make soft drinks at home.

This year was the first time Henley High participated in the F1 in Schools competition, which is judged at the Royal Adelaide Show, with the team achieving some excellent results.

Mr Barrett led the team of Alex Dawes, Amy Holland, Blake Robertson and Riley Nicolle through a rigorous development program and produced a very fast car.

The team took part in the Professional Class, which is the top level of the racing program. It is more common to begin at the entry level and develop the program over a period of several years.

The students designed and built a series of cars that were progressively more advanced

and sophisticated, culminating in the high-tech racer that was developed for race day. As part of the development program the students designed wheel packages, and designed and tested wing configurations and a variety of axle and bearing configurations. The team was also required to build a pit display, seek sponsors and record their ‘F1 journey’ in a detailed folio.

Despite some substantial time penalties distributed by the judges during the scrutineering process, the results were impressive for a first time entry and included: • Fastestreactionspeedrun• Oneofthefastestrecordedrunsinpractice• Secondfastestrecordedrun• Thirdoverall

The judges awarded Ludicrous Speed a wild card entry to the nationals – a wonderful result!

A lot to learnIt may have taken just five weeks to build, but ‘Sir Lance a Little’ – Pedare Christian College’s entry into the FIRST® Robotics Competition – gave the students experiences that will last a lifetime.

In March this year, a small team of Pedare middle and senior school students competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition at Sydney’s Olympic Park Centre.

In this large-scale competition Pedare competed against 50 other teams from around the world, including the United States, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China and Australia.

As a rookie team, Pedare was in the unique situation of knowing very little about the competition. However, robot ‘Sir Lance a Little’ did an admirable job, ranking 20th by the end of the competition.

In the five weeks of construction, Pedare’s STEM teacher, Emil Zankov, worked with a small team of middle and senior school students.

“As the students built their robot they grew in their ability to think creatively through the use of product design. They also needed to problem

solve, work collaboratively with other students and mentors, and critically reflect on their learning and make adjustments accordingly.

“As well, students have started building a solid foundation of skills that will provide them with the opportunity to excel in the fast-paced environment of today and into the future”, says Emile.

Pedare’s entry into the competition was made possible through a funding grant from Macquarie University, which covered the entry fee and the various components needed for the competition.

http://bit.ly/PCCRobotbuild2016

Mr Emil Zankov STEM & Technology Teacher Pedare Christian College

In their shoesThe Introduction to Engineering course at Craigmore High School aims to introduce students to the engineering design process and different streams of engineering, to ‘see what engineers do’.

Craigmore High School students have been offered the chance to participate in Introduction to Engineering in year 10. Students have the chance to become involved in the engineering design process, while also developing essential skills, including team work, project management, time management and communication.

During the course, students investigate different fields of engineering and their pathways, identify the work skills required of an engineer and document design development questions to consider when undertaking a project. Guest speakers and excursions support the program, and students are assessed using SACE Stage 1 Integrated Learning.

Students have been involved in a variety of projects including environmental engineering through water filtration, software engineering for people with sensory disabilities using Arduino Esplora boards, systems engineering using Concept to Creation projects, and aerospace engineering of an aircraft wing.

Abbey McCarthy, a year 11 student at Craigmore High School who recently gained a Certificate III Engineering (Technical) apprenticeship, said: “I learnt to work autonomously to design and create my own product to solve a problem”. Keenan Holder, another year 11 student, who also completed the course in 2015, said: “It was really useful to be introduced to the engineering design process to see what engineers do”.

Cheryl Ball ATP Manager Craigmore High School

Weighty mattersAs part of the Engineers in the Classroom program, year 9 Golden Grove High School science students spent time with three engineers from Lockheed Martin, a company who has been an important force in Australia’s defence and technology industry for over 50 years. The company has around 1000 employees in Australia and was voted in the top 100 graduate employers for 2016.

Lockheed Martin’s James Hogarth, Simon Inverarity and Denni Mackrill have been coming to the school on a regular basis. Simon is an aerospace engineer while James and Denni are both hardware engineers.

James Hogarth is a Golden Grove High School old scholar and attended the school from 2003 to 2007. After leaving high school he completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and went on to work for a building services consultancy for three years, as a Hydraulics Engineer. For the past 18 months he has been working at Lockheed Martin on the Jindalee Operational Radar Network known as JORN. This project aims to provide long-range over-the-horizon radar surveillance for the detection of aircraft and ships to Australia’s north.

James, Simon and Denni recently provided a greater understanding of what engineering involves as well as potential career pathways, unsurprisingly, STEM featured prominently.

Students worked in small teams on an aerospace engineering task. With a limited

budget and a minimum height of 20cm, they needed to design a structure that would hold the most weight. Student comments about the session included:

“I really enjoyed creating the structure in a team.” Kata

“The cost of materials made us think carefully about our design and how we could save money, but build a reasonable structure.” Jocelyn

“This was interesting, engineers make weird and cool stuff.” Cameron

“It was pretty fun and helpful, I didn’t know how engineering linked with science.” Josh

Danun Manson Year 12 Level Leader Science & Learning Capabilities

Engineers James Hogarth and Denni Mackrill with Ethan Robins & Sebastian Williams

Bailey Manuel and Jocelyn Reynolds

E-Racer and aerodynamics

Seaton High School’s year 9 design and technology students designed and built Formula 1 model cars as part of the ‘E-Racer STEM unit’.

The aim of the unit was for students to design a prototype and produce an electronic Formula 1 car based on their knowledge and understanding of aerodynamics.

Concepts covered included Bernoulli’s Principle, downward force, negative lift, drag, turbulence, laminar airflow, air pressure differentiation, drag coefficients and aerofoils.

Using this knowledge, students designed their cars and wheels using the industry standard CAD software Creo Parametric. They then tested their car designs using Flow Design wind tunnel software and made modifications based on the data generated.

Students then produced their Formula 1 cars and wheels using a 3D printer, going on to make a basic electronic circuit using motors and switches to power their cars.

Tom Griffith Seaton High School

Tackling real-world challengesTwenty South Australian schools have teamed with local companies to help find solutions to real-world challenges through the Problem Based Learning with Industry program.

Expanded in 2016 following a successful pilot program between Jurlique International and Heathfield High School in 2015, through the Australian Industry Group, the Problem Based Learning with Industry (PBLI) program encompasses 20 schools across metropolitan Adelaide and the Limestone Coast.

Companies already signed up to the program include Redarc, Zonge Engineering, Timberlink Australia, Fulton Hogan and Automotive Safety Engineers.

Under the program, teams of students from the schools will have several months to determine solutions to issues being faced by their industry partner. They will then present these to executives from the individual companies.

In addition to the student participation, up to 50 teachers are undertaking professional development in problem-based learning

through the Australian Science and Mathematics School. They will be supported by the Department for Education and Child Development’s business partnership managers and the Advanced Technology Project’s industry broker to establish and manage their school’s industry partnership.

Business Partnership Manager Sam Pearse says that through the PBLI experience students will be engaged in learning that allows them to apply their subject knowledge to solve authentic problems, drawing on creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration.

“Students are given the opportunity to work in teams on real problems knowing they will be presenting their solutions to industry, which is when we see innovation come to the fore.

“They ask for more of that kind of learning”, says Sam.

Kelly Keates, Managing Director of South Australian mining service exploration company Zonge Engineering, will partner with Seaview High School.

She says that the company is excited to be involved with the PBLI program.

“I think it provides a great opportunity for students to start forming an understanding of genuine industry problems and issues. This can only help enhance their preparation for industry when they eventually join the work force.”

Students at Seaview High School have been working on designing and constructing a new manual wire reel used by Zonge to transport, layout and retrieve a kilometre of wire used on geophysical surveys. Zonge has specified that students consider the wire’s weight, ease of use and protection.

“I really look forward to hearing their thoughts and examining their processes on how they tackle the challenge”, says Kelly

For more information on this program contact Sam Pearse at sam.pearse@sa.gov.au

An expo experience up there with the bestFrom wind turbines and energy efficient housing, through to robotics and quadcopters, it’s little wonder that the 2016 Southern Schools STEM Expo has been described as ‘a fabulous experience for everyone involved’.

Aberfoyle Park High School hosted its 5th South Science Expo at the TAFE SA Tonsley precinct in August.

It was again a very successful event. Nine secondary schools were represented: Aberfoyle Park High School, Blackwood High School, Hamilton Secondary College, Hallett Cove School, the Australian Science and Mathematics School (ASMS), Unley High School, Reynella East College, Seaview College and Brighton Secondary School.

Overall, an impressive 106 secondary students, 650 primary school students and 19 judges participated.

Working in teams on 32 projects that involved the design, construction and testing of a wide variety of contemporary engineering solutions, students gained valuable insight into these areas.

Projects presented on the day included: wind turbines, energy efficient house designs, minimising the force of motor vehicle collisions, robotics, coding, 3D printing, carbon dioxide dragsters, ‘SUBS in schools’, motion sensors, remote control planes and quadcopters.

The panel of expert judges came from across university, education and industry sectors and included: David Hart, Dematec; Margie

Rossi, Defence Teaming Centre; Sandy Walker, Flinders University; and Bernard Laidlaw, Department of State Development.

Primary school students were given the opportunity to ‘test drive’ the projects and judge the projects for the People’s Choice Award.

Innovation Award WinnersASMS: Domestic Violence Awareness App Advanced Technology Applications: Blackwood High School

People’s Choice Award WinnersYear 9 Science of Sound: Unley High School Year 8 Science Skills: Hamilton Secondary College

Congratulations to all the participants.

Celebrating submarinesState Education Minister Susan Close and Transport Minister Steve Mulligan visited Le Fevre High School – the Maritime High School of South Australia – following the announcement of the future submarines contract.

French company DCNS, with ASC Pty Ltd, secured the AU$50 billion contract, which ensures the next fleet of submarines for the navy would be built in Adelaide.

The visit was a resounding success as both ministers had the opportunity to speak with students about their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experiences and Advanced Technology Project (ATP) related courses.

In the very best tradition of Le Fevre High School, students were delighted by the opportunity to showcase and explain their work. Minister Close was particularly interested in the use of the laser cutter and 3D printing to enhance learning and provide students with the STEM skills they need for their future in the workforce.

Ministers Close & Mulligan at LeFevre

Primary school students in on the actA partnership between a high school and local primary schools has resulted in ‘Discovery Days’ – a STEM initiative whereby primary school students explore STEM themes and build projects using advanced technologies.

At a recent workshop, students designed and produced a weather vane using an anemometer, (an instrument used to measure wind speed) with Coreldraw software and a laser cutter to produce the parts needed. Measurements derived from the workshop were then used to produce and position the resting pole and arrow indicating the direction of the wind.

In another workshop, students studied the STEM principles relating to spinning tops and gyroscopes. They were given a lecture explaining the physics of the gyroscope and its application to systems such as active stability systems used in air warfare destroyer and drone technology. They then applied this knowledge in the Computer Numerical Control room and the workshop, to produce spinning tops and launchers.

To great excitement and fierce rivalry, a competition was held in the gymnasium to see whose spinning top would spin the longest. Students not only had a great day, but also realised the importance of STEM principles in the design and manufacture of objects seemingly as simple as spinning tops.

Le Fevre High School will continue to partner with primary school students and offer ATP STEM discovery days in 2017.

Thierry Herman ATP Manager Le Fevre High School

P-Tech comes to South AustraliaSt Patrick’s Technical College has partnered with the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) as part of the Australian Government’s $4.3 million P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) pilot program.

Under the program, St Patrick’s and DTC will work with members to develop STEM projects and provide mentoring opportunities for students that will potentially open pathways to employment in defence industries.

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham, Minister for Education and Training, launched what will be South Australia’s first P-TECH program in September during the school’s annual National Skills Week Business Lunch.

The P-TECH program – adapted from a United States model pioneered with IBM – centres on the creation of an education, industry and community partnership. The partnership provides an industry supported pathway for young people to achieve a qualification that strengthens their employment prospects.

During the launch, 120 industry leaders and employers from across northern Adelaide heard about the St Patrick’s P-TECH pilot from a panel with an interest in the project.

DTC General Manager of Capability and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kerryn Smith, spoke about her association with St Patrick’s, in particular, her experiences with the college’s education-industry partnerships and employment-focused STEM curriculum.

The college has worked closely with many DTC members over the past 10 years, providing skilled apprentices predominantly in the electrotechnology and engineering trades. ASC Pty Ltd, Century Engineering, BAE Systems and the DST Group are among

the employers who have engaged multiple school-based and full-time apprentices from the college’s specialist programs.

St Patrick’s lead STEM teacher, Bradley Sheridan, will play a major role in the P-TECH program and he, along with a working party, will be responsible for developing new projects involving DTC member employers. They will include work placements, industry visits and employees working alongside students in college classrooms, laboratories and workshops.

For more information about P-TECH visit: www.stpatstech.sa.edu.au/p-tech www.saf.org.au www.p-tech.org.au

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham

Students testing their spinning tops

New funding model for the ATPIn September the Advanced Technology Project (ATP) hosted Jenny Lloyd from the Department of Defence in Canberra. Jenny was in Adelaide to attend a meeting of the ATP’s Steering Committee, at which a new funding model was approved.

While in Adelaide Jenny made time to visit two ATP schools: Playford International College and Le Fevre High School. She enjoyed the opportunity to meet staff and students and to see first-hand the projects that students can be involved in as an ATP school.

The 2016–2017 National Partnership Agreement for South Australia’s Advanced Technology Industry School Pathways

Programme had a number of positive outcomes such as increasing the number of schools as well as strengthening schools’ links with defence industries.

The September Steering Committee meeting was an important one as a new future funding model was presented to the committee.

To assist in achieving these goals ATP schools will now apply for ‘grants’ for STEM related projects, with clearly articulated outcomes and stronger reporting and acquittal processes.

ATP looks forward to further developments in innovative STEM education and stronger links with defence industries.

In their shoesThe Introduction to Engineering course at Craigmore High School aims to introduce students to the engineering design process and different streams of engineering, to ‘see what engineers do’.

Craigmore High School students have been offered the chance to participate in Introduction to Engineering in year 10. Students have the chance to become involved in the engineering design process, while also developing essential skills, including team work, project management, time management and communication.

During the course, students investigate different fields of engineering and their pathways, identify the work skills required of an engineer and document design development questions to consider when undertaking a project. Guest speakers and excursions support the program, and students are assessed using SACE Stage 1 Integrated Learning.

Students have been involved in a variety of projects including environmental engineering through water filtration, software engineering for people with sensory disabilities using Arduino Esplora boards, systems engineering using Concept to Creation projects, and aerospace engineering of an aircraft wing.

Abbey McCarthy, a year 11 student at Craigmore High School who recently gained a Certificate III Engineering (Technical) apprenticeship, said: “I learnt to work autonomously to design and create my own product to solve a problem”. Keenan Holder, another year 11 student, who also completed the course in 2015, said: “It was really useful to be introduced to the engineering design process to see what engineers do”.

Cheryl Ball ATP Manager Craigmore High School

Weighty mattersAs part of the Engineers in the Classroom program, year 9 Golden Grove High School science students spent time with three engineers from Lockheed Martin, a company who has been an important force in Australia’s defence and technology industry for over 50 years. The company has around 1000 employees in Australia and was voted in the top 100 graduate employers for 2016.

Lockheed Martin’s James Hogarth, Simon Inverarity and Denni Mackrill have been coming to the school on a regular basis. Simon is an aerospace engineer while James and Denni are both hardware engineers.

James Hogarth is a Golden Grove High School old scholar and attended the school from 2003 to 2007. After leaving high school he completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and went on to work for a building services consultancy for three years, as a Hydraulics Engineer. For the past 18 months he has been working at Lockheed Martin on the Jindalee Operational Radar Network known as JORN. This project aims to provide long-range over-the-horizon radar surveillance for the detection of aircraft and ships to Australia’s north.

James, Simon and Denni recently provided a greater understanding of what engineering involves as well as potential career pathways, unsurprisingly, STEM featured prominently.

Students worked in small teams on an aerospace engineering task. With a limited

budget and a minimum height of 20cm, they needed to design a structure that would hold the most weight. Student comments about the session included:

“I really enjoyed creating the structure in a team.” Kata

“The cost of materials made us think carefully about our design and how we could save money, but build a reasonable structure.” Jocelyn

“This was interesting, engineers make weird and cool stuff.” Cameron

“It was pretty fun and helpful, I didn’t know how engineering linked with science.” Josh

Danun Manson Year 12 Level Leader Science & Learning Capabilities

Engineers James Hogarth and Denni Mackrill with Ethan Robins & Sebastian Williams

Bailey Manuel and Jocelyn Reynolds

E-Racer and aerodynamics

Seaton High School’s year 9 design and technology students designed and built Formula 1 model cars as part of the ‘E-Racer STEM unit’.

The aim of the unit was for students to design a prototype and produce an electronic Formula 1 car based on their knowledge and understanding of aerodynamics.

Concepts covered included Bernoulli’s Principle, downward force, negative lift, drag, turbulence, laminar airflow, air pressure differentiation, drag coefficients and aerofoils.

Using this knowledge, students designed their cars and wheels using the industry standard CAD software Creo Parametric. They then tested their car designs using Flow Design wind tunnel software and made modifications based on the data generated.

Students then produced their Formula 1 cars and wheels using a 3D printer, going on to make a basic electronic circuit using motors and switches to power their cars.

Tom Griffith Seaton High School

Tackling real-world challengesTwenty South Australian schools have teamed with local companies to help find solutions to real-world challenges through the Problem Based Learning with Industry program.

Expanded in 2016 following a successful pilot program between Jurlique International and Heathfield High School in 2015, through the Australian Industry Group, the Problem Based Learning with Industry (PBLI) program encompasses 20 schools across metropolitan Adelaide and the Limestone Coast.

Companies already signed up to the program include Redarc, Zonge Engineering, Timberlink Australia, Fulton Hogan and Automotive Safety Engineers.

Under the program, teams of students from the schools will have several months to determine solutions to issues being faced by their industry partner. They will then present these to executives from the individual companies.

In addition to the student participation, up to 50 teachers are undertaking professional development in problem-based learning

through the Australian Science and Mathematics School. They will be supported by the Department for Education and Child Development’s business partnership managers and the Advanced Technology Project’s industry broker to establish and manage their school’s industry partnership.

Business Partnership Manager Sam Pearse says that through the PBLI experience students will be engaged in learning that allows them to apply their subject knowledge to solve authentic problems, drawing on creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration.

“Students are given the opportunity to work in teams on real problems knowing they will be presenting their solutions to industry, which is when we see innovation come to the fore.

“They ask for more of that kind of learning”, says Sam.

Kelly Keates, Managing Director of South Australian mining service exploration company Zonge Engineering, will partner with Seaview High School.

She says that the company is excited to be involved with the PBLI program.

“I think it provides a great opportunity for students to start forming an understanding of genuine industry problems and issues. This can only help enhance their preparation for industry when they eventually join the work force.”

Students at Seaview High School have been working on designing and constructing a new manual wire reel used by Zonge to transport, layout and retrieve a kilometre of wire used on geophysical surveys. Zonge has specified that students consider the wire’s weight, ease of use and protection.

“I really look forward to hearing their thoughts and examining their processes on how they tackle the challenge”, says Kelly

For more information on this program contact Sam Pearse at sam.pearse@sa.gov.au

An expo experience up there with the bestFrom wind turbines and energy efficient housing, through to robotics and quadcopters, it’s little wonder that the 2016 Southern Schools STEM Expo has been described as ‘a fabulous experience for everyone involved’.

Aberfoyle Park High School hosted its 5th South Science Expo at the TAFE SA Tonsley precinct in August.

It was again a very successful event. Nine secondary schools were represented: Aberfoyle Park High School, Blackwood High School, Hamilton Secondary College, Hallett Cove School, the Australian Science and Mathematics School (ASMS), Unley High School, Reynella East College, Seaview College and Brighton Secondary School.

Overall, an impressive 106 secondary students, 650 primary school students and 19 judges participated.

Working in teams on 32 projects that involved the design, construction and testing of a wide variety of contemporary engineering solutions, students gained valuable insight into these areas.

Projects presented on the day included: wind turbines, energy efficient house designs, minimising the force of motor vehicle collisions, robotics, coding, 3D printing, carbon dioxide dragsters, ‘SUBS in schools’, motion sensors, remote control planes and quadcopters.

The panel of expert judges came from across university, education and industry sectors and included: David Hart, Dematec; Margie

Rossi, Defence Teaming Centre; Sandy Walker, Flinders University; and Bernard Laidlaw, Department of State Development.

Primary school students were given the opportunity to ‘test drive’ the projects and judge the projects for the People’s Choice Award.

Innovation Award WinnersASMS: Domestic Violence Awareness App Advanced Technology Applications: Blackwood High School

People’s Choice Award WinnersYear 9 Science of Sound: Unley High School Year 8 Science Skills: Hamilton Secondary College

Congratulations to all the participants.

Celebrating submarinesState Education Minister Susan Close and Transport Minister Steve Mulligan visited Le Fevre High School – the Maritime High School of South Australia – following the announcement of the future submarines contract.

French company DCNS, with ASC Pty Ltd, secured the AU$50 billion contract, which ensures the next fleet of submarines for the navy would be built in Adelaide.

The visit was a resounding success as both ministers had the opportunity to speak with students about their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experiences and Advanced Technology Project (ATP) related courses.

In the very best tradition of Le Fevre High School, students were delighted by the opportunity to showcase and explain their work. Minister Close was particularly interested in the use of the laser cutter and 3D printing to enhance learning and provide students with the STEM skills they need for their future in the workforce.

Ministers Close & Mulligan at LeFevre

Primary school students in on the actA partnership between a high school and local primary schools has resulted in ‘Discovery Days’ – a STEM initiative whereby primary school students explore STEM themes and build projects using advanced technologies.

At a recent workshop, students designed and produced a weather vane using an anemometer, (an instrument used to measure wind speed) with Coreldraw software and a laser cutter to produce the parts needed. Measurements derived from the workshop were then used to produce and position the resting pole and arrow indicating the direction of the wind.

In another workshop, students studied the STEM principles relating to spinning tops and gyroscopes. They were given a lecture explaining the physics of the gyroscope and its application to systems such as active stability systems used in air warfare destroyer and drone technology. They then applied this knowledge in the Computer Numerical Control room and the workshop, to produce spinning tops and launchers.

To great excitement and fierce rivalry, a competition was held in the gymnasium to see whose spinning top would spin the longest. Students not only had a great day, but also realised the importance of STEM principles in the design and manufacture of objects seemingly as simple as spinning tops.

Le Fevre High School will continue to partner with primary school students and offer ATP STEM discovery days in 2017.

Thierry Herman ATP Manager Le Fevre High School

P-Tech comes to South AustraliaSt Patrick’s Technical College has partnered with the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) as part of the Australian Government’s $4.3 million P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) pilot program.

Under the program, St Patrick’s and DTC will work with members to develop STEM projects and provide mentoring opportunities for students that will potentially open pathways to employment in defence industries.

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham, Minister for Education and Training, launched what will be South Australia’s first P-TECH program in September during the school’s annual National Skills Week Business Lunch.

The P-TECH program – adapted from a United States model pioneered with IBM – centres on the creation of an education, industry and community partnership. The partnership provides an industry supported pathway for young people to achieve a qualification that strengthens their employment prospects.

During the launch, 120 industry leaders and employers from across northern Adelaide heard about the St Patrick’s P-TECH pilot from a panel with an interest in the project.

DTC General Manager of Capability and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kerryn Smith, spoke about her association with St Patrick’s, in particular, her experiences with the college’s education-industry partnerships and employment-focused STEM curriculum.

The college has worked closely with many DTC members over the past 10 years, providing skilled apprentices predominantly in the electrotechnology and engineering trades. ASC Pty Ltd, Century Engineering, BAE Systems and the DST Group are among

the employers who have engaged multiple school-based and full-time apprentices from the college’s specialist programs.

St Patrick’s lead STEM teacher, Bradley Sheridan, will play a major role in the P-TECH program and he, along with a working party, will be responsible for developing new projects involving DTC member employers. They will include work placements, industry visits and employees working alongside students in college classrooms, laboratories and workshops.

For more information about P-TECH visit: www.stpatstech.sa.edu.au/p-tech www.saf.org.au www.p-tech.org.au

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham

Students testing their spinning tops

New funding model for the ATPIn September the Advanced Technology Project (ATP) hosted Jenny Lloyd from the Department of Defence in Canberra. Jenny was in Adelaide to attend a meeting of the ATP’s Steering Committee, at which a new funding model was approved.

While in Adelaide Jenny made time to visit two ATP schools: Playford International College and Le Fevre High School. She enjoyed the opportunity to meet staff and students and to see first-hand the projects that students can be involved in as an ATP school.

The 2016–2017 National Partnership Agreement for South Australia’s Advanced Technology Industry School Pathways

Programme had a number of positive outcomes such as increasing the number of schools as well as strengthening schools’ links with defence industries.

The September Steering Committee meeting was an important one as a new future funding model was presented to the committee.

To assist in achieving these goals ATP schools will now apply for ‘grants’ for STEM related projects, with clearly articulated outcomes and stronger reporting and acquittal processes.

ATP looks forward to further developments in innovative STEM education and stronger links with defence industries.

In their shoesThe Introduction to Engineering course at Craigmore High School aims to introduce students to the engineering design process and different streams of engineering, to ‘see what engineers do’.

Craigmore High School students have been offered the chance to participate in Introduction to Engineering in year 10. Students have the chance to become involved in the engineering design process, while also developing essential skills, including team work, project management, time management and communication.

During the course, students investigate different fields of engineering and their pathways, identify the work skills required of an engineer and document design development questions to consider when undertaking a project. Guest speakers and excursions support the program, and students are assessed using SACE Stage 1 Integrated Learning.

Students have been involved in a variety of projects including environmental engineering through water filtration, software engineering for people with sensory disabilities using Arduino Esplora boards, systems engineering using Concept to Creation projects, and aerospace engineering of an aircraft wing.

Abbey McCarthy, a year 11 student at Craigmore High School who recently gained a Certificate III Engineering (Technical) apprenticeship, said: “I learnt to work autonomously to design and create my own product to solve a problem”. Keenan Holder, another year 11 student, who also completed the course in 2015, said: “It was really useful to be introduced to the engineering design process to see what engineers do”.

Cheryl Ball ATP Manager Craigmore High School

Weighty mattersAs part of the Engineers in the Classroom program, year 9 Golden Grove High School science students spent time with three engineers from Lockheed Martin, a company who has been an important force in Australia’s defence and technology industry for over 50 years. The company has around 1000 employees in Australia and was voted in the top 100 graduate employers for 2016.

Lockheed Martin’s James Hogarth, Simon Inverarity and Denni Mackrill have been coming to the school on a regular basis. Simon is an aerospace engineer while James and Denni are both hardware engineers.

James Hogarth is a Golden Grove High School old scholar and attended the school from 2003 to 2007. After leaving high school he completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and went on to work for a building services consultancy for three years, as a Hydraulics Engineer. For the past 18 months he has been working at Lockheed Martin on the Jindalee Operational Radar Network known as JORN. This project aims to provide long-range over-the-horizon radar surveillance for the detection of aircraft and ships to Australia’s north.

James, Simon and Denni recently provided a greater understanding of what engineering involves as well as potential career pathways, unsurprisingly, STEM featured prominently.

Students worked in small teams on an aerospace engineering task. With a limited

budget and a minimum height of 20cm, they needed to design a structure that would hold the most weight. Student comments about the session included:

“I really enjoyed creating the structure in a team.” Kata

“The cost of materials made us think carefully about our design and how we could save money, but build a reasonable structure.” Jocelyn

“This was interesting, engineers make weird and cool stuff.” Cameron

“It was pretty fun and helpful, I didn’t know how engineering linked with science.” Josh

Danun Manson Year 12 Level Leader Science & Learning Capabilities

Engineers James Hogarth and Denni Mackrill with Ethan Robins & Sebastian Williams

Bailey Manuel and Jocelyn Reynolds

E-Racer and aerodynamics

Seaton High School’s year 9 design and technology students designed and built Formula 1 model cars as part of the ‘E-Racer STEM unit’.

The aim of the unit was for students to design a prototype and produce an electronic Formula 1 car based on their knowledge and understanding of aerodynamics.

Concepts covered included Bernoulli’s Principle, downward force, negative lift, drag, turbulence, laminar airflow, air pressure differentiation, drag coefficients and aerofoils.

Using this knowledge, students designed their cars and wheels using the industry standard CAD software Creo Parametric. They then tested their car designs using Flow Design wind tunnel software and made modifications based on the data generated.

Students then produced their Formula 1 cars and wheels using a 3D printer, going on to make a basic electronic circuit using motors and switches to power their cars.

Tom Griffith Seaton High School

Tackling real-world challengesTwenty South Australian schools have teamed with local companies to help find solutions to real-world challenges through the Problem Based Learning with Industry program.

Expanded in 2016 following a successful pilot program between Jurlique International and Heathfield High School in 2015, through the Australian Industry Group, the Problem Based Learning with Industry (PBLI) program encompasses 20 schools across metropolitan Adelaide and the Limestone Coast.

Companies already signed up to the program include Redarc, Zonge Engineering, Timberlink Australia, Fulton Hogan and Automotive Safety Engineers.

Under the program, teams of students from the schools will have several months to determine solutions to issues being faced by their industry partner. They will then present these to executives from the individual companies.

In addition to the student participation, up to 50 teachers are undertaking professional development in problem-based learning

through the Australian Science and Mathematics School. They will be supported by the Department for Education and Child Development’s business partnership managers and the Advanced Technology Project’s industry broker to establish and manage their school’s industry partnership.

Business Partnership Manager Sam Pearse says that through the PBLI experience students will be engaged in learning that allows them to apply their subject knowledge to solve authentic problems, drawing on creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration.

“Students are given the opportunity to work in teams on real problems knowing they will be presenting their solutions to industry, which is when we see innovation come to the fore.

“They ask for more of that kind of learning”, says Sam.

Kelly Keates, Managing Director of South Australian mining service exploration company Zonge Engineering, will partner with Seaview High School.

She says that the company is excited to be involved with the PBLI program.

“I think it provides a great opportunity for students to start forming an understanding of genuine industry problems and issues. This can only help enhance their preparation for industry when they eventually join the work force.”

Students at Seaview High School have been working on designing and constructing a new manual wire reel used by Zonge to transport, layout and retrieve a kilometre of wire used on geophysical surveys. Zonge has specified that students consider the wire’s weight, ease of use and protection.

“I really look forward to hearing their thoughts and examining their processes on how they tackle the challenge”, says Kelly

For more information on this program contact Sam Pearse at sam.pearse@sa.gov.au

An expo experience up there with the bestFrom wind turbines and energy efficient housing, through to robotics and quadcopters, it’s little wonder that the 2016 Southern Schools STEM Expo has been described as ‘a fabulous experience for everyone involved’.

Aberfoyle Park High School hosted its 5th South Science Expo at the TAFE SA Tonsley precinct in August.

It was again a very successful event. Nine secondary schools were represented: Aberfoyle Park High School, Blackwood High School, Hamilton Secondary College, Hallett Cove School, the Australian Science and Mathematics School (ASMS), Unley High School, Reynella East College, Seaview College and Brighton Secondary School.

Overall, an impressive 106 secondary students, 650 primary school students and 19 judges participated.

Working in teams on 32 projects that involved the design, construction and testing of a wide variety of contemporary engineering solutions, students gained valuable insight into these areas.

Projects presented on the day included: wind turbines, energy efficient house designs, minimising the force of motor vehicle collisions, robotics, coding, 3D printing, carbon dioxide dragsters, ‘SUBS in schools’, motion sensors, remote control planes and quadcopters.

The panel of expert judges came from across university, education and industry sectors and included: David Hart, Dematec; Margie

Rossi, Defence Teaming Centre; Sandy Walker, Flinders University; and Bernard Laidlaw, Department of State Development.

Primary school students were given the opportunity to ‘test drive’ the projects and judge the projects for the People’s Choice Award.

Innovation Award WinnersASMS: Domestic Violence Awareness App Advanced Technology Applications: Blackwood High School

People’s Choice Award WinnersYear 9 Science of Sound: Unley High School Year 8 Science Skills: Hamilton Secondary College

Congratulations to all the participants.

Celebrating submarinesState Education Minister Susan Close and Transport Minister Steve Mulligan visited Le Fevre High School – the Maritime High School of South Australia – following the announcement of the future submarines contract.

French company DCNS, with ASC Pty Ltd, secured the AU$50 billion contract, which ensures the next fleet of submarines for the navy would be built in Adelaide.

The visit was a resounding success as both ministers had the opportunity to speak with students about their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experiences and Advanced Technology Project (ATP) related courses.

In the very best tradition of Le Fevre High School, students were delighted by the opportunity to showcase and explain their work. Minister Close was particularly interested in the use of the laser cutter and 3D printing to enhance learning and provide students with the STEM skills they need for their future in the workforce.

Ministers Close & Mulligan at LeFevre

Primary school students in on the actA partnership between a high school and local primary schools has resulted in ‘Discovery Days’ – a STEM initiative whereby primary school students explore STEM themes and build projects using advanced technologies.

At a recent workshop, students designed and produced a weather vane using an anemometer, (an instrument used to measure wind speed) with Coreldraw software and a laser cutter to produce the parts needed. Measurements derived from the workshop were then used to produce and position the resting pole and arrow indicating the direction of the wind.

In another workshop, students studied the STEM principles relating to spinning tops and gyroscopes. They were given a lecture explaining the physics of the gyroscope and its application to systems such as active stability systems used in air warfare destroyer and drone technology. They then applied this knowledge in the Computer Numerical Control room and the workshop, to produce spinning tops and launchers.

To great excitement and fierce rivalry, a competition was held in the gymnasium to see whose spinning top would spin the longest. Students not only had a great day, but also realised the importance of STEM principles in the design and manufacture of objects seemingly as simple as spinning tops.

Le Fevre High School will continue to partner with primary school students and offer ATP STEM discovery days in 2017.

Thierry Herman ATP Manager Le Fevre High School

P-Tech comes to South AustraliaSt Patrick’s Technical College has partnered with the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) as part of the Australian Government’s $4.3 million P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) pilot program.

Under the program, St Patrick’s and DTC will work with members to develop STEM projects and provide mentoring opportunities for students that will potentially open pathways to employment in defence industries.

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham, Minister for Education and Training, launched what will be South Australia’s first P-TECH program in September during the school’s annual National Skills Week Business Lunch.

The P-TECH program – adapted from a United States model pioneered with IBM – centres on the creation of an education, industry and community partnership. The partnership provides an industry supported pathway for young people to achieve a qualification that strengthens their employment prospects.

During the launch, 120 industry leaders and employers from across northern Adelaide heard about the St Patrick’s P-TECH pilot from a panel with an interest in the project.

DTC General Manager of Capability and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kerryn Smith, spoke about her association with St Patrick’s, in particular, her experiences with the college’s education-industry partnerships and employment-focused STEM curriculum.

The college has worked closely with many DTC members over the past 10 years, providing skilled apprentices predominantly in the electrotechnology and engineering trades. ASC Pty Ltd, Century Engineering, BAE Systems and the DST Group are among

the employers who have engaged multiple school-based and full-time apprentices from the college’s specialist programs.

St Patrick’s lead STEM teacher, Bradley Sheridan, will play a major role in the P-TECH program and he, along with a working party, will be responsible for developing new projects involving DTC member employers. They will include work placements, industry visits and employees working alongside students in college classrooms, laboratories and workshops.

For more information about P-TECH visit: www.stpatstech.sa.edu.au/p-tech www.saf.org.au www.p-tech.org.au

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham

Students testing their spinning tops

New funding model for the ATPIn September the Advanced Technology Project (ATP) hosted Jenny Lloyd from the Department of Defence in Canberra. Jenny was in Adelaide to attend a meeting of the ATP’s Steering Committee, at which a new funding model was approved.

While in Adelaide Jenny made time to visit two ATP schools: Playford International College and Le Fevre High School. She enjoyed the opportunity to meet staff and students and to see first-hand the projects that students can be involved in as an ATP school.

The 2016–2017 National Partnership Agreement for South Australia’s Advanced Technology Industry School Pathways

Programme had a number of positive outcomes such as increasing the number of schools as well as strengthening schools’ links with defence industries.

The September Steering Committee meeting was an important one as a new future funding model was presented to the committee.

To assist in achieving these goals ATP schools will now apply for ‘grants’ for STEM related projects, with clearly articulated outcomes and stronger reporting and acquittal processes.

ATP looks forward to further developments in innovative STEM education and stronger links with defence industries.

In their shoesThe Introduction to Engineering course at Craigmore High School aims to introduce students to the engineering design process and different streams of engineering, to ‘see what engineers do’.

Craigmore High School students have been offered the chance to participate in Introduction to Engineering in year 10. Students have the chance to become involved in the engineering design process, while also developing essential skills, including team work, project management, time management and communication.

During the course, students investigate different fields of engineering and their pathways, identify the work skills required of an engineer and document design development questions to consider when undertaking a project. Guest speakers and excursions support the program, and students are assessed using SACE Stage 1 Integrated Learning.

Students have been involved in a variety of projects including environmental engineering through water filtration, software engineering for people with sensory disabilities using Arduino Esplora boards, systems engineering using Concept to Creation projects, and aerospace engineering of an aircraft wing.

Abbey McCarthy, a year 11 student at Craigmore High School who recently gained a Certificate III Engineering (Technical) apprenticeship, said: “I learnt to work autonomously to design and create my own product to solve a problem”. Keenan Holder, another year 11 student, who also completed the course in 2015, said: “It was really useful to be introduced to the engineering design process to see what engineers do”.

Cheryl Ball ATP Manager Craigmore High School

Weighty mattersAs part of the Engineers in the Classroom program, year 9 Golden Grove High School science students spent time with three engineers from Lockheed Martin, a company who has been an important force in Australia’s defence and technology industry for over 50 years. The company has around 1000 employees in Australia and was voted in the top 100 graduate employers for 2016.

Lockheed Martin’s James Hogarth, Simon Inverarity and Denni Mackrill have been coming to the school on a regular basis. Simon is an aerospace engineer while James and Denni are both hardware engineers.

James Hogarth is a Golden Grove High School old scholar and attended the school from 2003 to 2007. After leaving high school he completed a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and went on to work for a building services consultancy for three years, as a Hydraulics Engineer. For the past 18 months he has been working at Lockheed Martin on the Jindalee Operational Radar Network known as JORN. This project aims to provide long-range over-the-horizon radar surveillance for the detection of aircraft and ships to Australia’s north.

James, Simon and Denni recently provided a greater understanding of what engineering involves as well as potential career pathways, unsurprisingly, STEM featured prominently.

Students worked in small teams on an aerospace engineering task. With a limited

budget and a minimum height of 20cm, they needed to design a structure that would hold the most weight. Student comments about the session included:

“I really enjoyed creating the structure in a team.” Kata

“The cost of materials made us think carefully about our design and how we could save money, but build a reasonable structure.” Jocelyn

“This was interesting, engineers make weird and cool stuff.” Cameron

“It was pretty fun and helpful, I didn’t know how engineering linked with science.” Josh

Danun Manson Year 12 Level Leader Science & Learning Capabilities

Engineers James Hogarth and Denni Mackrill with Ethan Robins & Sebastian Williams

Bailey Manuel and Jocelyn Reynolds

E-Racer and aerodynamics

Seaton High School’s year 9 design and technology students designed and built Formula 1 model cars as part of the ‘E-Racer STEM unit’.

The aim of the unit was for students to design a prototype and produce an electronic Formula 1 car based on their knowledge and understanding of aerodynamics.

Concepts covered included Bernoulli’s Principle, downward force, negative lift, drag, turbulence, laminar airflow, air pressure differentiation, drag coefficients and aerofoils.

Using this knowledge, students designed their cars and wheels using the industry standard CAD software Creo Parametric. They then tested their car designs using Flow Design wind tunnel software and made modifications based on the data generated.

Students then produced their Formula 1 cars and wheels using a 3D printer, going on to make a basic electronic circuit using motors and switches to power their cars.

Tom Griffith Seaton High School

Tackling real-world challengesTwenty South Australian schools have teamed with local companies to help find solutions to real-world challenges through the Problem Based Learning with Industry program.

Expanded in 2016 following a successful pilot program between Jurlique International and Heathfield High School in 2015, through the Australian Industry Group, the Problem Based Learning with Industry (PBLI) program encompasses 20 schools across metropolitan Adelaide and the Limestone Coast.

Companies already signed up to the program include Redarc, Zonge Engineering, Timberlink Australia, Fulton Hogan and Automotive Safety Engineers.

Under the program, teams of students from the schools will have several months to determine solutions to issues being faced by their industry partner. They will then present these to executives from the individual companies.

In addition to the student participation, up to 50 teachers are undertaking professional development in problem-based learning

through the Australian Science and Mathematics School. They will be supported by the Department for Education and Child Development’s business partnership managers and the Advanced Technology Project’s industry broker to establish and manage their school’s industry partnership.

Business Partnership Manager Sam Pearse says that through the PBLI experience students will be engaged in learning that allows them to apply their subject knowledge to solve authentic problems, drawing on creativity, critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration.

“Students are given the opportunity to work in teams on real problems knowing they will be presenting their solutions to industry, which is when we see innovation come to the fore.

“They ask for more of that kind of learning”, says Sam.

Kelly Keates, Managing Director of South Australian mining service exploration company Zonge Engineering, will partner with Seaview High School.

She says that the company is excited to be involved with the PBLI program.

“I think it provides a great opportunity for students to start forming an understanding of genuine industry problems and issues. This can only help enhance their preparation for industry when they eventually join the work force.”

Students at Seaview High School have been working on designing and constructing a new manual wire reel used by Zonge to transport, layout and retrieve a kilometre of wire used on geophysical surveys. Zonge has specified that students consider the wire’s weight, ease of use and protection.

“I really look forward to hearing their thoughts and examining their processes on how they tackle the challenge”, says Kelly

For more information on this program contact Sam Pearse at sam.pearse@sa.gov.au

An expo experience up there with the bestFrom wind turbines and energy efficient housing, through to robotics and quadcopters, it’s little wonder that the 2016 Southern Schools STEM Expo has been described as ‘a fabulous experience for everyone involved’.

Aberfoyle Park High School hosted its 5th South Science Expo at the TAFE SA Tonsley precinct in August.

It was again a very successful event. Nine secondary schools were represented: Aberfoyle Park High School, Blackwood High School, Hamilton Secondary College, Hallett Cove School, the Australian Science and Mathematics School (ASMS), Unley High School, Reynella East College, Seaview College and Brighton Secondary School.

Overall, an impressive 106 secondary students, 650 primary school students and 19 judges participated.

Working in teams on 32 projects that involved the design, construction and testing of a wide variety of contemporary engineering solutions, students gained valuable insight into these areas.

Projects presented on the day included: wind turbines, energy efficient house designs, minimising the force of motor vehicle collisions, robotics, coding, 3D printing, carbon dioxide dragsters, ‘SUBS in schools’, motion sensors, remote control planes and quadcopters.

The panel of expert judges came from across university, education and industry sectors and included: David Hart, Dematec; Margie

Rossi, Defence Teaming Centre; Sandy Walker, Flinders University; and Bernard Laidlaw, Department of State Development.

Primary school students were given the opportunity to ‘test drive’ the projects and judge the projects for the People’s Choice Award.

Innovation Award WinnersASMS: Domestic Violence Awareness App Advanced Technology Applications: Blackwood High School

People’s Choice Award WinnersYear 9 Science of Sound: Unley High School Year 8 Science Skills: Hamilton Secondary College

Congratulations to all the participants.

Celebrating submarinesState Education Minister Susan Close and Transport Minister Steve Mulligan visited Le Fevre High School – the Maritime High School of South Australia – following the announcement of the future submarines contract.

French company DCNS, with ASC Pty Ltd, secured the AU$50 billion contract, which ensures the next fleet of submarines for the navy would be built in Adelaide.

The visit was a resounding success as both ministers had the opportunity to speak with students about their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) experiences and Advanced Technology Project (ATP) related courses.

In the very best tradition of Le Fevre High School, students were delighted by the opportunity to showcase and explain their work. Minister Close was particularly interested in the use of the laser cutter and 3D printing to enhance learning and provide students with the STEM skills they need for their future in the workforce.

Ministers Close & Mulligan at LeFevre

Primary school students in on the actA partnership between a high school and local primary schools has resulted in ‘Discovery Days’ – a STEM initiative whereby primary school students explore STEM themes and build projects using advanced technologies.

At a recent workshop, students designed and produced a weather vane using an anemometer, (an instrument used to measure wind speed) with Coreldraw software and a laser cutter to produce the parts needed. Measurements derived from the workshop were then used to produce and position the resting pole and arrow indicating the direction of the wind.

In another workshop, students studied the STEM principles relating to spinning tops and gyroscopes. They were given a lecture explaining the physics of the gyroscope and its application to systems such as active stability systems used in air warfare destroyer and drone technology. They then applied this knowledge in the Computer Numerical Control room and the workshop, to produce spinning tops and launchers.

To great excitement and fierce rivalry, a competition was held in the gymnasium to see whose spinning top would spin the longest. Students not only had a great day, but also realised the importance of STEM principles in the design and manufacture of objects seemingly as simple as spinning tops.

Le Fevre High School will continue to partner with primary school students and offer ATP STEM discovery days in 2017.

Thierry Herman ATP Manager Le Fevre High School

P-Tech comes to South AustraliaSt Patrick’s Technical College has partnered with the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) as part of the Australian Government’s $4.3 million P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) pilot program.

Under the program, St Patrick’s and DTC will work with members to develop STEM projects and provide mentoring opportunities for students that will potentially open pathways to employment in defence industries.

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham, Minister for Education and Training, launched what will be South Australia’s first P-TECH program in September during the school’s annual National Skills Week Business Lunch.

The P-TECH program – adapted from a United States model pioneered with IBM – centres on the creation of an education, industry and community partnership. The partnership provides an industry supported pathway for young people to achieve a qualification that strengthens their employment prospects.

During the launch, 120 industry leaders and employers from across northern Adelaide heard about the St Patrick’s P-TECH pilot from a panel with an interest in the project.

DTC General Manager of Capability and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kerryn Smith, spoke about her association with St Patrick’s, in particular, her experiences with the college’s education-industry partnerships and employment-focused STEM curriculum.

The college has worked closely with many DTC members over the past 10 years, providing skilled apprentices predominantly in the electrotechnology and engineering trades. ASC Pty Ltd, Century Engineering, BAE Systems and the DST Group are among

the employers who have engaged multiple school-based and full-time apprentices from the college’s specialist programs.

St Patrick’s lead STEM teacher, Bradley Sheridan, will play a major role in the P-TECH program and he, along with a working party, will be responsible for developing new projects involving DTC member employers. They will include work placements, industry visits and employees working alongside students in college classrooms, laboratories and workshops.

For more information about P-TECH visit: www.stpatstech.sa.edu.au/p-tech www.saf.org.au www.p-tech.org.au

Senator the Honourable Simon Birmingham

Students testing their spinning tops

New funding model for the ATPIn September the Advanced Technology Project (ATP) hosted Jenny Lloyd from the Department of Defence in Canberra. Jenny was in Adelaide to attend a meeting of the ATP’s Steering Committee, at which a new funding model was approved.

While in Adelaide Jenny made time to visit two ATP schools: Playford International College and Le Fevre High School. She enjoyed the opportunity to meet staff and students and to see first-hand the projects that students can be involved in as an ATP school.

The 2016–2017 National Partnership Agreement for South Australia’s Advanced Technology Industry School Pathways

Programme had a number of positive outcomes such as increasing the number of schools as well as strengthening schools’ links with defence industries.

The September Steering Committee meeting was an important one as a new future funding model was presented to the committee.

To assist in achieving these goals ATP schools will now apply for ‘grants’ for STEM related projects, with clearly articulated outcomes and stronger reporting and acquittal processes.

ATP looks forward to further developments in innovative STEM education and stronger links with defence industries.

Students land home after Space CampFour Aboriginal students from 2 South Australian schools have returned to earth after experiencing life in space.

The students and 2 teachers experienced the trip of a lifetime during a week-long immersion in an American space camp in Huntsville, Alabama in the United States.

As part of the trip, the group built and launched rockets, used astronaut-training equipment and conducted a simulated space shuttle mission.

While there, they stayed in ‘space habitats’, which mimic sleeping conditions on the International Space Station; participated in and excelled at engineering challenges, such as rocket building and water purification; and undertook training similar to that of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts on acceptance into the space program.

The 4 lucky students were Piper and Ashley from Woodville High School and Tyson and Kiara from Playford International College who were accompanied by teachers Sam Tuffnell and Sue Elderfield who had their own special educators’ space camp experience.

Along with guided tours of museums and exhibits by retired NASA scientists, they were given the chance to meet and ask questions of Don Thomas, one of the most decorated astronauts in NASA’s history.

Piper, Ashley, Kiara and Tyson were the only Australians among 100 other year 8 students with the remainder coming from the United States and United Kingdom.

Piper said that “participating in awesome activities and meeting heaps of new friends from all over world was the best thing about space camp”.

“It showed me how science and maths are used in the real-world, not just the classroom. Talking to a real-life astronaut was really cool, too.”

Forty-five teachers participated and through their own space camp experience they were able to exchange ideas and hear about how STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is taught in other countries.

Sam said that immersion in the space camp environment was a chance to remember where STEM skills can lead.

“We saw the real-world benefits and spoke with experts about how they built space shuttles, the problems they faced and how they solved them – it was amazing”, he said.

Sue said it showed her how science and maths are used in the real world, not just the classroom.

“A whole range of possibilities have opened up – if we can manage the time differences we are really keen to skype each other’s classes.”

(Continued overpage...)

Program UpdateThe South Australian Advanced Technology Project (ATP) is a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and state governments that aims to increase the number of students studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The ATP is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Defence and managed by the Department for Education and Child Development.

In the last edition, we announced that the Centre for Defence Industry Capability would be reviewing the program. While awaiting the review outcome, we will continue to evaluate and improve our existing program by incorporating a new funding model for 2017.

We are confident that the excellent results achieved over the life of the project will be recognised and we will continue to advance this project, which has helped develop and support a positive STEM culture in South Australian schools.

EDITOR Pam Gerrard pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

09I S S U E

O C T O B E R2 0 1 6

Space Campers (Left to right): Piper Harvey, Kiara Tilmouth-Presley,

Tyson Evans and Ashley Tong

Social Media and ATP SchoolsWith many of our ATP schools publishing social media and video links to showcase their innovative STEM curriculum and projects we felt it was time to start a new communiqué. Use the new ATP QR code to easily access our Moodle site and electronic newsletters.

This month we are featuring;

Hallett Cove School, Year 10 students and Newtonian physics at ASE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”&HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”feature=youtube

Henley High School and Year 9 Innovative Water Pumps https://www.facebook.com/DECD.SA/videos/621286691380529/

Hallett Cove Robotics Club Sea Perch Competition http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s4538784.htm

Henley High School and STEM Connections: Illustrations of Practice https://publish.viostream.com/play/w9iaf6bo1b9em

Nanotechnology under the microscope – a teacher’s perspectiveThrough the ATP ‘Teacher in Residence’ program, Playford International College teacher Tan Sood was able to contact specialists in the field of nanotechnology and look into the subject with students.

As part of the Advanced Technology Project, Teacher in Residence program I decided to explore the topic of nanotechnology.

Through the program I was able to make contact with Dr Kamil Zuber and Dr Aidan Cousins from the University of South Australia.

Dr Zuber is a Research Associate who is currently studying superhydrophobic coatings for automotive windscreens.

Dr Cousins has research interests in magnetic nanoparticles and medical physics. For his PhD, Dr Cousins’ research focused on the spread of cancer through the body and how to provide surgeons with accurate information about the disease.

Both Dr Zuber and Dr Cousins have focused their research on nanotechnology.

During Term 2, as a part of the school’s STEM curriculum, I conducted a four-week program on nanotechnology with my year 9 and year 11 chemistry students where they explored issues including:

• exploringnanotechnologyasanemergingarea of science and its impact on our lives

• examiningnanoparticlesandhowtheydifferfrom normal-sized particles

• investigatingthevariousapplicationsofnanotechnology and the ethical issues associated with the use of nanoparticles.

As a class activity students focused on water repelling chemistry associated with nanoparticles. Students compared the properties of two types of sand: regular and magic. They looked at the behaviours of the sand using water and other organic solvents and came to the conclusion that unlike normal sand, magic sand has a hydrophobic surface that repels water. The students built on this concept and learned that many materials can be water repellent if coated with certain types of nanocomposite coatings.

Dr Cousins delivered a fascinating presentation on nanotechnology and its applications in the real world that had the students captivated.

I would like to thank Dr Aidan Cousins, Dr Kamil Zuber, Nat Scherer and Celina Bolding for taking the time out of their schedules to present and organise the course for my students.

Tan Sood Playford International College

Students working with ‘magic’ sand

Dr Cousins and Tan

Dr Zuber - Atmospheric plasma chamber for thin film nanocomposite coatings

National Science WeekGleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events and challenges. A free standing Roman arch that supported 1.2 kg before collapsing and a straw bridge supporting a dynamic weight of 2.2 kg achieved first place.

Gleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events. Students in years 8 and 9 participated in a series of science and engineering challenges, ranging from building bridges and rescue devices, to constructing and testing bungee cords, Roman arches and flat-pack chairs. The students worked in small groups to complete the set tasks, which were judged by students from the STEM Society.

Students and staff were also challenged during their morning care group sessions with a series of questions covering a range of scientific disciplines and general knowledge areas. Prizes were awarded to both students and staff. Questions ranged from: ‘When you hit your funny bone, what are you actually hitting?’ and ‘When a material is freeze-dried, water is extracted bypassing which of its states of matter?’ through to ‘The moon with the most active volcanoes in our solar system orbits which planet?’

[Answers: The ulnar nerve, liquid (sublimation) and Jupiter]

Richard Sellers STEM and ATP Manager

[Students land home after Space Camp] from page 1

“Students will be able to experience what it’s like to be in a classroom in the United States and United Kingdom and vice versa, and we will be able to look to work together to implement engaging ways to further develop students’ STEM skills”, she said.

The students and teachers extend their thanks to the Advanced Technology Project for supporting the trip and special thanks to the Northrup Grumman Corporation, which provided the funding.

3D printing on showThe 3D Printing Competition was held again this year and entries were on display at the Royal Adelaide Show.

The Advanced Technology Project (ATP), in collaboration with the Royal Adelaide Show, runs the competition, which includes all secondary schools in South Australia, not just ATP and/or government schools.

Entries were exhibited in the Advanced Technology Pavilion along with the F1 in Schools competition.

The standard of entries was excellent and included a maze, sundial and scissors.

WinnersSculpture Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Shan Gopuran, Prescott College Southern

Sculpture Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Sandy Wu, Walford Anglican School for Girls

Functional Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Vincent Stephenson 2nd Prize: Oakly Andary, Prescott College Southern 3rd Prize: Jared Bird, Seaview High School

Function Object Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Elijah Schutz, Pedare Christian College 2nd Prize: Isobel Cassidy, Pedare Christian College 3rd Prize: Thomas Montague, Pedare Christian College

Mechanical Moving Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Luke Williams, Seaview High School 2nd Prize: Angus Pointon, Minlaton District School 3rd Prize: Caleb Tutton, Seaview High School

The ATP and Royal Adelaide Show look forward to more student entries next year. For more information contact Pam Gerrard at pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

Hallett Cove takes on SeaPerch challengeTwo teams from the Hallett Cove Robotics Club, based at Hallett Cove R-12 School, recently took part in the SeaPerch underwater robotics challenge, held at Louisiana State University in the United States.

The club’s focus is to engage students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in an informal environment after school hours. The club teaches students the basics of microprocessor programming using STEMSEL and Arduino microprocessors, and encourages students to use these microprocessors in projects of their own choosing.

In 2015 the club became aware of the SeaPerch program in the United States. The SeaPerch is a small submersible vehicle built cheaply with PVC pipe and 12 volt hobby motors. Members of the club formed teams of two and with the help of a local hardware store, built several SeaPerches. The teams then spent time modifying and testing their vehicles so that they could complete various underwater tasks, including an obstacle course and ball retrieval. Microprocessors were also added to control the speed and depth of the vehicles.

In January 2016 the teams went to Flinders University for the inaugural Australian SeaPerch Challenge. They presented their designs to the

judges from the ASC as well as competing in a variety of underwater challenges. The winners were then eligible to compete in the United States National SeaPerch Challenge held at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The squad of two teams sent by the club went by the name of The Sea Dragons, after the local indigenous aquatic creatures. In Baton Rouge they competed against nearly 200 other teams from across the United States. The students spent considerable time comparing vehicles and ideas with the other competitors, who were very interested in the use of the microprocessor control. The two teams, VACUUM and AUSV Searcher, did very well, finishing in 5th and 6th place in the Open Class.

Don Eickhoff Coordinator Hallett Cove Robotics Club www.hallettcoverobotics.club

Navigating their wayA STEM (science technology, engineering and mathematics) day at LeFevre High School culminated in a boat race, with models produced by students racing against the clock in a purpose-built water channel.

LeFevre High School hosted the STEM day in cooperation with the Defence Industry Pathway Program (DIPP9) and TAFE SA’s Regency campus.

Fourteen DIPP students from 10 schools were involved in 3D modelling and 3D printing once a week for a semester, with TAFE SA lecturer Anthony Tonkin and co-teacher from Le Fevre, Eddie Grzeskowiak.

The STEM day kicked off with a session by Naval Engineering teacher and Advanced Technical Project Manager, Thierry Herman. The lecture covered the topics of buoyancy, the Archimedes’ Principle, hydrodynamics, stability principles and active stability systems, such as the ones found on air warfare destroyers. It finished with naval engineering and design, specifically, the shape and function of hulls.

Students went on to shape a hull from foam and compared its true displacement with the value calculated. This was achieved through collecting data and using Simpson’s method in 3D to calculate the volume of complex shapes.

After lunch, students worked with Anthony and Eddie to put into practice what they had learnt earlier in the day and produced model boats of various shapes and designs.

Next came the boat race, with data subsequently analysed to observe the correlation between the shape of the hull and performance.

The day was a great success and boosted students’ understanding of STEM skills and their influence on future career opportunities, including defence industries.

The speed: ludicrousThe raw speed of Henley High School’s entry in the F1 in Schools program, Ludicrous Speed, was rewarded with a wild card entry into the national titles to be held in conjunction with the Melbourne Grand Prix in March 2017.

F1 in Schools is a ‘Re-Engineering Australia’ program where students design and build a CO2 racing car from scratch. With the use of digital technologies for the design and manufacture of the vehicle, it is powered by a CO2 canister similar to that used to make soft drinks at home.

This year was the first time Henley High participated in the F1 in Schools competition, which is judged at the Royal Adelaide Show, with the team achieving some excellent results.

Mr Barrett led the team of Alex Dawes, Amy Holland, Blake Robertson and Riley Nicolle through a rigorous development program and produced a very fast car.

The team took part in the Professional Class, which is the top level of the racing program. It is more common to begin at the entry level and develop the program over a period of several years.

The students designed and built a series of cars that were progressively more advanced

and sophisticated, culminating in the high-tech racer that was developed for race day. As part of the development program the students designed wheel packages, and designed and tested wing configurations and a variety of axle and bearing configurations. The team was also required to build a pit display, seek sponsors and record their ‘F1 journey’ in a detailed folio.

Despite some substantial time penalties distributed by the judges during the scrutineering process, the results were impressive for a first time entry and included: • Fastestreactionspeedrun• Oneofthefastestrecordedrunsinpractice• Secondfastestrecordedrun• Thirdoverall

The judges awarded Ludicrous Speed a wild card entry to the nationals – a wonderful result!

A lot to learnIt may have taken just five weeks to build, but ‘Sir Lance a Little’ – Pedare Christian College’s entry into the FIRST® Robotics Competition – gave the students experiences that will last a lifetime.

In March this year, a small team of Pedare middle and senior school students competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition at Sydney’s Olympic Park Centre.

In this large-scale competition Pedare competed against 50 other teams from around the world, including the United States, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China and Australia.

As a rookie team, Pedare was in the unique situation of knowing very little about the competition. However, robot ‘Sir Lance a Little’ did an admirable job, ranking 20th by the end of the competition.

In the five weeks of construction, Pedare’s STEM teacher, Emil Zankov, worked with a small team of middle and senior school students.

“As the students built their robot they grew in their ability to think creatively through the use of product design. They also needed to problem

solve, work collaboratively with other students and mentors, and critically reflect on their learning and make adjustments accordingly.

“As well, students have started building a solid foundation of skills that will provide them with the opportunity to excel in the fast-paced environment of today and into the future”, says Emile.

Pedare’s entry into the competition was made possible through a funding grant from Macquarie University, which covered the entry fee and the various components needed for the competition.

http://bit.ly/PCCRobotbuild2016

Mr Emil Zankov STEM & Technology Teacher Pedare Christian College

Students land home after Space CampFour Aboriginal students from 2 South Australian schools have returned to earth after experiencing life in space.

The students and 2 teachers experienced the trip of a lifetime during a week-long immersion in an American space camp in Huntsville, Alabama in the United States.

As part of the trip, the group built and launched rockets, used astronaut-training equipment and conducted a simulated space shuttle mission.

While there, they stayed in ‘space habitats’, which mimic sleeping conditions on the International Space Station; participated in and excelled at engineering challenges, such as rocket building and water purification; and undertook training similar to that of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts on acceptance into the space program.

The 4 lucky students were Piper and Ashley from Woodville High School and Tyson and Kiara from Playford International College who were accompanied by teachers Sam Tuffnell and Sue Elderfield who had their own special educators’ space camp experience.

Along with guided tours of museums and exhibits by retired NASA scientists, they were given the chance to meet and ask questions of Don Thomas, one of the most decorated astronauts in NASA’s history.

Piper, Ashley, Kiara and Tyson were the only Australians among 100 other year 8 students with the remainder coming from the United States and United Kingdom.

Piper said that “participating in awesome activities and meeting heaps of new friends from all over world was the best thing about space camp”.

“It showed me how science and maths are used in the real-world, not just the classroom. Talking to a real-life astronaut was really cool, too.”

Forty-five teachers participated and through their own space camp experience they were able to exchange ideas and hear about how STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) is taught in other countries.

Sam said that immersion in the space camp environment was a chance to remember where STEM skills can lead.

“We saw the real-world benefits and spoke with experts about how they built space shuttles, the problems they faced and how they solved them – it was amazing”, he said.

Sue said it showed her how science and maths are used in the real world, not just the classroom.

“A whole range of possibilities have opened up – if we can manage the time differences we are really keen to skype each other’s classes.”

(Continued overpage...)

Program UpdateThe South Australian Advanced Technology Project (ATP) is a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and state governments that aims to increase the number of students studying STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The ATP is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Defence and managed by the Department for Education and Child Development.

In the last edition, we announced that the Centre for Defence Industry Capability would be reviewing the program. While awaiting the review outcome, we will continue to evaluate and improve our existing program by incorporating a new funding model for 2017.

We are confident that the excellent results achieved over the life of the project will be recognised and we will continue to advance this project, which has helped develop and support a positive STEM culture in South Australian schools.

EDITOR Pam Gerrard pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

09I S S U E

O C T O B E R2 0 1 6

Space Campers (Left to right): Piper Harvey, Kiara Tilmouth-Presley,

Tyson Evans and Ashley Tong

Social Media and ATP SchoolsWith many of our ATP schools publishing social media and video links to showcase their innovative STEM curriculum and projects we felt it was time to start a new communiqué. Use the new ATP QR code to easily access our Moodle site and electronic newsletters.

This month we are featuring;

Hallett Cove School, Year 10 students and Newtonian physics at ASE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”&HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc9FeR7MZ68&feature=youtu.be”feature=youtube

Henley High School and Year 9 Innovative Water Pumps https://www.facebook.com/DECD.SA/videos/621286691380529/

Hallett Cove Robotics Club Sea Perch Competition http://www.abc.net.au/btn/story/s4538784.htm

Henley High School and STEM Connections: Illustrations of Practice https://publish.viostream.com/play/w9iaf6bo1b9em

Nanotechnology under the microscope – a teacher’s perspectiveThrough the ATP ‘Teacher in Residence’ program, Playford International College teacher Tan Sood was able to contact specialists in the field of nanotechnology and look into the subject with students.

As part of the Advanced Technology Project, Teacher in Residence program I decided to explore the topic of nanotechnology.

Through the program I was able to make contact with Dr Kamil Zuber and Dr Aidan Cousins from the University of South Australia.

Dr Zuber is a Research Associate who is currently studying superhydrophobic coatings for automotive windscreens.

Dr Cousins has research interests in magnetic nanoparticles and medical physics. For his PhD, Dr Cousins’ research focused on the spread of cancer through the body and how to provide surgeons with accurate information about the disease.

Both Dr Zuber and Dr Cousins have focused their research on nanotechnology.

During Term 2, as a part of the school’s STEM curriculum, I conducted a four-week program on nanotechnology with my year 9 and year 11 chemistry students where they explored issues including:

• exploringnanotechnologyasanemergingarea of science and its impact on our lives

• examiningnanoparticlesandhowtheydifferfrom normal-sized particles

• investigatingthevariousapplicationsofnanotechnology and the ethical issues associated with the use of nanoparticles.

As a class activity students focused on water repelling chemistry associated with nanoparticles. Students compared the properties of two types of sand: regular and magic. They looked at the behaviours of the sand using water and other organic solvents and came to the conclusion that unlike normal sand, magic sand has a hydrophobic surface that repels water. The students built on this concept and learned that many materials can be water repellent if coated with certain types of nanocomposite coatings.

Dr Cousins delivered a fascinating presentation on nanotechnology and its applications in the real world that had the students captivated.

I would like to thank Dr Aidan Cousins, Dr Kamil Zuber, Nat Scherer and Celina Bolding for taking the time out of their schedules to present and organise the course for my students.

Tan Sood Playford International College

Students working with ‘magic’ sand

Dr Cousins and Tan

Dr Zuber - Atmospheric plasma chamber for thin film nanocomposite coatings

National Science WeekGleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events and challenges. A free standing Roman arch that supported 1.2 kg before collapsing and a straw bridge supporting a dynamic weight of 2.2 kg achieved first place.

Gleeson College celebrated National Science week with a number of events. Students in years 8 and 9 participated in a series of science and engineering challenges, ranging from building bridges and rescue devices, to constructing and testing bungee cords, Roman arches and flat-pack chairs. The students worked in small groups to complete the set tasks, which were judged by students from the STEM Society.

Students and staff were also challenged during their morning care group sessions with a series of questions covering a range of scientific disciplines and general knowledge areas. Prizes were awarded to both students and staff. Questions ranged from: ‘When you hit your funny bone, what are you actually hitting?’ and ‘When a material is freeze-dried, water is extracted bypassing which of its states of matter?’ through to ‘The moon with the most active volcanoes in our solar system orbits which planet?’

[Answers: The ulnar nerve, liquid (sublimation) and Jupiter]

Richard Sellers STEM and ATP Manager

[Students land home after Space Camp] from page 1

“Students will be able to experience what it’s like to be in a classroom in the United States and United Kingdom and vice versa, and we will be able to look to work together to implement engaging ways to further develop students’ STEM skills”, she said.

The students and teachers extend their thanks to the Advanced Technology Project for supporting the trip and special thanks to the Northrup Grumman Corporation, which provided the funding.

3D printing on showThe 3D Printing Competition was held again this year and entries were on display at the Royal Adelaide Show.

The Advanced Technology Project (ATP), in collaboration with the Royal Adelaide Show, runs the competition, which includes all secondary schools in South Australia, not just ATP and/or government schools.

Entries were exhibited in the Advanced Technology Pavilion along with the F1 in Schools competition.

The standard of entries was excellent and included a maze, sundial and scissors.

WinnersSculpture Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Shan Gopuran, Prescott College Southern

Sculpture Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Sandy Wu, Walford Anglican School for Girls

Functional Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Vincent Stephenson 2nd Prize: Oakly Andary, Prescott College Southern 3rd Prize: Jared Bird, Seaview High School

Function Object Years 10, 11 & 12 1st Prize: Elijah Schutz, Pedare Christian College 2nd Prize: Isobel Cassidy, Pedare Christian College 3rd Prize: Thomas Montague, Pedare Christian College

Mechanical Moving Object Years 8 & 9 1st Prize: Luke Williams, Seaview High School 2nd Prize: Angus Pointon, Minlaton District School 3rd Prize: Caleb Tutton, Seaview High School

The ATP and Royal Adelaide Show look forward to more student entries next year. For more information contact Pam Gerrard at pam.gerrard@sa.gov.au

Hallett Cove takes on SeaPerch challengeTwo teams from the Hallett Cove Robotics Club, based at Hallett Cove R-12 School, recently took part in the SeaPerch underwater robotics challenge, held at Louisiana State University in the United States.

The club’s focus is to engage students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities in an informal environment after school hours. The club teaches students the basics of microprocessor programming using STEMSEL and Arduino microprocessors, and encourages students to use these microprocessors in projects of their own choosing.

In 2015 the club became aware of the SeaPerch program in the United States. The SeaPerch is a small submersible vehicle built cheaply with PVC pipe and 12 volt hobby motors. Members of the club formed teams of two and with the help of a local hardware store, built several SeaPerches. The teams then spent time modifying and testing their vehicles so that they could complete various underwater tasks, including an obstacle course and ball retrieval. Microprocessors were also added to control the speed and depth of the vehicles.

In January 2016 the teams went to Flinders University for the inaugural Australian SeaPerch Challenge. They presented their designs to the

judges from the ASC as well as competing in a variety of underwater challenges. The winners were then eligible to compete in the United States National SeaPerch Challenge held at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The squad of two teams sent by the club went by the name of The Sea Dragons, after the local indigenous aquatic creatures. In Baton Rouge they competed against nearly 200 other teams from across the United States. The students spent considerable time comparing vehicles and ideas with the other competitors, who were very interested in the use of the microprocessor control. The two teams, VACUUM and AUSV Searcher, did very well, finishing in 5th and 6th place in the Open Class.

Don Eickhoff Coordinator Hallett Cove Robotics Club www.hallettcoverobotics.club

Navigating their wayA STEM (science technology, engineering and mathematics) day at LeFevre High School culminated in a boat race, with models produced by students racing against the clock in a purpose-built water channel.

LeFevre High School hosted the STEM day in cooperation with the Defence Industry Pathway Program (DIPP9) and TAFE SA’s Regency campus.

Fourteen DIPP students from 10 schools were involved in 3D modelling and 3D printing once a week for a semester, with TAFE SA lecturer Anthony Tonkin and co-teacher from Le Fevre, Eddie Grzeskowiak.

The STEM day kicked off with a session by Naval Engineering teacher and Advanced Technical Project Manager, Thierry Herman. The lecture covered the topics of buoyancy, the Archimedes’ Principle, hydrodynamics, stability principles and active stability systems, such as the ones found on air warfare destroyers. It finished with naval engineering and design, specifically, the shape and function of hulls.

Students went on to shape a hull from foam and compared its true displacement with the value calculated. This was achieved through collecting data and using Simpson’s method in 3D to calculate the volume of complex shapes.

After lunch, students worked with Anthony and Eddie to put into practice what they had learnt earlier in the day and produced model boats of various shapes and designs.

Next came the boat race, with data subsequently analysed to observe the correlation between the shape of the hull and performance.

The day was a great success and boosted students’ understanding of STEM skills and their influence on future career opportunities, including defence industries.

The speed: ludicrousThe raw speed of Henley High School’s entry in the F1 in Schools program, Ludicrous Speed, was rewarded with a wild card entry into the national titles to be held in conjunction with the Melbourne Grand Prix in March 2017.

F1 in Schools is a ‘Re-Engineering Australia’ program where students design and build a CO2 racing car from scratch. With the use of digital technologies for the design and manufacture of the vehicle, it is powered by a CO2 canister similar to that used to make soft drinks at home.

This year was the first time Henley High participated in the F1 in Schools competition, which is judged at the Royal Adelaide Show, with the team achieving some excellent results.

Mr Barrett led the team of Alex Dawes, Amy Holland, Blake Robertson and Riley Nicolle through a rigorous development program and produced a very fast car.

The team took part in the Professional Class, which is the top level of the racing program. It is more common to begin at the entry level and develop the program over a period of several years.

The students designed and built a series of cars that were progressively more advanced

and sophisticated, culminating in the high-tech racer that was developed for race day. As part of the development program the students designed wheel packages, and designed and tested wing configurations and a variety of axle and bearing configurations. The team was also required to build a pit display, seek sponsors and record their ‘F1 journey’ in a detailed folio.

Despite some substantial time penalties distributed by the judges during the scrutineering process, the results were impressive for a first time entry and included: • Fastestreactionspeedrun• Oneofthefastestrecordedrunsinpractice• Secondfastestrecordedrun• Thirdoverall

The judges awarded Ludicrous Speed a wild card entry to the nationals – a wonderful result!

A lot to learnIt may have taken just five weeks to build, but ‘Sir Lance a Little’ – Pedare Christian College’s entry into the FIRST® Robotics Competition – gave the students experiences that will last a lifetime.

In March this year, a small team of Pedare middle and senior school students competed in the FIRST Robotics Competition at Sydney’s Olympic Park Centre.

In this large-scale competition Pedare competed against 50 other teams from around the world, including the United States, Taiwan, India, Singapore, China and Australia.

As a rookie team, Pedare was in the unique situation of knowing very little about the competition. However, robot ‘Sir Lance a Little’ did an admirable job, ranking 20th by the end of the competition.

In the five weeks of construction, Pedare’s STEM teacher, Emil Zankov, worked with a small team of middle and senior school students.

“As the students built their robot they grew in their ability to think creatively through the use of product design. They also needed to problem

solve, work collaboratively with other students and mentors, and critically reflect on their learning and make adjustments accordingly.

“As well, students have started building a solid foundation of skills that will provide them with the opportunity to excel in the fast-paced environment of today and into the future”, says Emile.

Pedare’s entry into the competition was made possible through a funding grant from Macquarie University, which covered the entry fee and the various components needed for the competition.

http://bit.ly/PCCRobotbuild2016

Mr Emil Zankov STEM & Technology Teacher Pedare Christian College