Science & STEM

Students explore the chemical and physical sciences in a laboratory style environment and participate in a hands on program that involves the children completing a large variety of practical investigations. It is important for students to observe science in action, rather than to simply read or be told about it. With a high emphasis on safe lab procedures, students can be seen utilising an extensive range of equipment working to rediscover the theory that great scientists before them have explored. Our program provides children with a variety of individual and small group experiences. The program is sequenced allowing students to build on their personal knowledge and experiences each year.

To implement the Science program, we use the lab room set up that enables classes to complete projects that require space and specific materials. We have walking access to Edendale Farm (across the road) and the surrounding creek area that enables us to complete field work on a regular basis. The school grounds also provide a science rich environment for students to observe, gather data, and produce reports on their observations.

Our class teachers lead inquiry based sessions with their year level students. All students are involved in a safety induction program at the beginning of each year to ensure that they are well acquainted with correct laboratory procedures. Safety in the lab is paramount and students develop a strong sense of the need for these practices. Procedures are regularly reviewed with students at all levels. These procedures are also designed to assist the students in completing practical investigations to a high standard producing pleasing and often exciting results for them.

During the induction program, the students and program leader work collaboratively to produce some communal expectations of everyone working in the Lab.