Generation STEM brings growth opportunities to The Hills
The Hills Shire Council , in partnership with the CSIRO , is bringing Generation STEM to the region - an exciting initiative aimed at inspiring and equipping our next generation of scientists , mathematicians , engineers and technicians with the skills they need to solve real world problems .
Mayor of The Hills Shire , Dr Michelle Byrne is encouraging local businesses to partner with Hills Shire schools through Generation STEM . There are many ways for businesses to get involved in the program , including :
• Mentoring teachers ;
• Hosting site visits ;
• Delivering a master class ; or
• Providing work experience opportunities .
Mayor Byrne said this was a wonderful way for students to understand more about the industry and to consider a career in STEM ( Science , Technology , Engineering and Mathematics ).
“ STEM skills are in high-demand , especially in the COVID-19 pandemic , including : the work that went into the COVID testing labs and clinics ; the engineers involved in producing vital Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ); the technology used to shift businesses and their staff to remote and online working environments ; and the creation of lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines ,” Mayor Byrne said .
“ With the Western Sydney Airport and Aerotropolis underway , our local industry will need greater access to a skilled workforce with experience in STEM , and this program is one way we can encourage children and young people to continue their interest in these subjects .
“ Council is proud to partner with the CSIRO on this awesome initiative that inspires young and curious minds to pursue a career in STEM ,” Mayor Byrne added .
Mayor Byrne said there were many benefits to businesses taking part in Generation STEM , including engaging young people in helping to solve local problems .
“ This is a great way to showcase the many job avenues available under STEM and to provide students with real life ‘ on the job ’ experience ,” Mayor Byrne said .
“ It also shows them how an education in STEM can give them the skills to innovate and develop meaningful , and interesting careers , so they can do the things that matter to them ,” Mayor Byrne added .
The first program to be launched under Generation STEM is the STEM Community Partnerships Program , where students can participate in STEM inquirybased projects to address challenges faced by the local community and industries . A virtual information session is available for interested businesses that would like to learn more about how they can help inspire local students and build the workforce of tomorrow .
EVENT DETAILS :
• Date : Thursday , November 18 Time : 12pm
• Location : Virtual event ( a web link will be emailed to registered participants ).
• Find out more or to register for the virtual information session , email generationSTEM @ csiro . au .
Joyful return to Arden Anglican
This month saw school students in Kindergarten , Year 1 and Year 12 return to learning on campus and it was such a joyful occasion for students and parents alike . Backpacks heavy with books , shiny shoes and colourful face masks were a very welcome sight at schools across our local community .
Arden Anglican School adorned both their Junior Campus in Beecroft and Secondary Campus in Epping with ‘ welcome back ’ banners and teachers decorated their classrooms to celebrate the return of students following the COVID-19 lockdown .
“ We had music playing in the street as our children arrived with their parents . It created such a wonderful atmosphere . Everyone was so happy – students , teachers and especially the parents .” explained Mr Watkins , Head of Junior School .
“ Our eldest students have embraced these extra few weeks with great enthusiasm ,” said the Head of
Senior School , Mr Simon Przydacz .
“ We are so pleased that we can help them focus on their remaining time and that they have the opportunity to be
with their cohort again before the HSC commences .
“ We have been praised by parents for an exceptional online learning program which has been delivered using Microsoft Team during the pandemic , but there is nothing like having our students back on campus .”
Arden recently announced the appointment of their new Principal , Mr Justin Beckett , who will commence in 2022 – Arden ’ s Centenary year . Mr Beckett , who is the current Principal at Trinity Anglican College in Albury , will commence his headship at Arden in January next year with the enthusiastic support of the school community .
Enrolling now for 2023 and beyond . Limited places in Year 5 in 2022 .
For more information visit : www . arden . nsw . edu . au .
30 ISSUE 77 // NOVEMBER 2021 theindependentmagazine . com . au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT