At Apollo Parkways Primary School, our STEM program equips students to design, create, use and evaluate innovative solutions that meet current and future needs. Students learn to make decisions about the design, development and use of technologies and to consider the impacts of technological and scientific change.

Robotics combines science, technology, engineering and math — encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and analytical thinking skills. Equipment such as RVR+, Bolt, Mini and Indi Sphero Robots, Bee-bots and Blue-bots are utilised in our STEM program as well as classrooms. Using Micro:Bit technology, students investigate electronic systems, inputs and outputs. Through their exploration of the micro:bit inbuilt sensors, such as light, sound and temperature sensors, students consider the differences between programs that respond to an input, such as pressing a button, and those that respond to a change in environmental conditions. Students code and create inventions, develop interactive games, build step trackers and design digital thermometers.

Hands-on science learning allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. Students gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and see how it can be applied, developed and used in everyday life. Students are given the opportunity in STEM to experiment and explore, thinking creatively and devising solutions to the challenges they encounter. This helps them develop their resilience and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in any career. Students create fossils, grow crystals, build sundials, complete forensic science investigations and study water in the environment.

Through engineering projects in STEM, students plan and produce designed solutions and manage projects independently, collaboratively and in teams, from conception to realisation. They apply design processes to investigate, generate, evaluate and improve their design ideas. Students develop a sense of pride, satisfaction and enjoyment from their ability to design and produce their projects, meeting established student-led outcomes. Students plan and design marble runs, chariots, bridges and mini golf courses.

For more information, click the button below.