Science Guest Speakers Encourage Year 5 and Year 6 To Be Bold

“We can all do our part to unleash our world’s enormous untapped talent – starting with filling classrooms, laboratories, and boardrooms with women scientists.”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres

In response to Guterres’ quote, Year 5 and Year 6 girls welcomed guest speakers who sought to encourage them to enter the field of science as their chosen profession. Fran Grant and Greer Horwarth, from Sydney Trains and Transport, spoke with the girls about the joys and challenges associated with choosing a career in science and engineering.

Fran spoke about her journey through developing a trade. She began as a technician who “fixed things”.  She loved being able use her skills to find employment as she travelled anywhere. Her point was: “things always need fixing.”  She also highlighted how these jobs pay very well.

Greer talked about her love of marine biology.  Her career began in the water but the skills she learnt were easily transferable to other areas in science. She now analyses data to make decisions that change the way things are done.  She also loves being a female role model for other women, something much lacking when she began her career.

Both speakers were honest as they highlighted the lack of gender equity in the field of science and engineering.  Despite this, the girls were encouraged to be bold. As the 21st Century moves on there are many new experiences being developed and the world needs thinkers, innovators and those prepared to be daring and audacious to try new things. The call was made for the girls to step up, step out and change the world.

– Year 5 and Year 6 Teachers

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