Earlier this term nearly one hundred trail blazing Year 6 students from St Gertrude’s, Smithfield  and Sacred Heart, Cabramatta primary schools ventured to Mary MacKillop Catholic College to explore the STEM possibilities offered at the College.

Spurred on by the energetic Year 10 students who were great mentors for the younger girls, the students delved into the Simmons STEM Challenge. Inspired by the quantum scientist, Michelle Simmons (Australian of the Year 2018) the students engaged in activities focussing on Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The principles of physics were examined as the students engineered a Newton’s Cradle; mathematical skills were employed to calculate the difference in the speed of cars using a variety of technologies to source energy, and chemistry concepts were combined to reveal a bath bomb. The day culminated in the great candy-pult (catapult) assault which proved to reveal the true competitive nature and technological skills of the visiting Year 6 students.

All students and staff involved in the day were amazed at the vigour with which the challenges were undertaken and the team efforts that demonstrated advanced problem solving skills. It is certainly full STEM ahead for girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths at MMCC.

Thank you to Miss Israel, Mrs Webster, Mr Rainert and Mr Nguyen for their leadership of the day.

Rosellina Ryan, TAS Coordinator