Improving STEM access for children in rural communities with Schools Plus

 

National not-for-profit, Australian Schools Plus (Schools Plus) is giving children and young people in rural Australia more opportunities to build real-world skills like problem solving and critical thinking, thanks to a three-year partnership between Schools Plus and St.George Foundation. 

 

"A critical time for children to engage with STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) is between the ages of 10 to 14, when children are in Years 5 to 9.  These are known as the 'future shaping' years, when young people make key decisions about their future and what areas of study they wish to pursue," says Sherrill Nixon, Chief Executive of Schools Plus. 

 

Unfortunately, children and young people in rural Australia often don't get the same kinds of STEM opportunities as their urban peers, so they often fall behind in these key learning areas - which can have huge ramifications for their future careers and livelihoods. 

 

With foundations in Queensland in 2017, the Australia Virtual STEM Academy (VSA) has expanded thanks to Schools Plus' support over the past few years to reach than 10,000 children across three different states, including New South Wales and the Northern Territory. In 2023, 87% of surveyed students reported to have improved in STEM skills and capabilities. 

 

The Academy has been a key turning point for students in rural and remote areas, opening doors for them to virtually connect with like-minded students and STEM teachers, experts and industry leaders to build their skills and lift their aspirations for future STEM careers. 

 

In 2023, there were 197 schools participating in the program, enabling students to access courses delivered via an innovative, real-time, online learning platform. The program uses gamification to engage students, who can connect with like-minded peers in other schools, while learning key skills such as problem solving, inquiry, critical thinking, creativity and curiosity. 

 

"It helps create aspirations and knowledge, ultimately growing the talent pool of students who continue to pursue STEM education through upper secondary and tertiary study, particularly in areas of Australia where there are known low STEM participation rates," says Nixon. 

 

The virtual academy has also improved outcomes for teachers in rural areas, delivering professional development to 698 educators in remote regions, through collaboration with experts from universities, industry and government organisations. 

 

The program's success would not have been possible without the 2021 St.George Foundation Inspire Grant that has provided $596,000 over three years, enabling Schools Plus to expand the academy into schools in the Northern Territory and New South Wales. 

 

"It is an absolute standout initiative for Schools Plus," says Nixon. "It has shown that by creating innovative and fun virtual learning environments, kids in regional and remote schools can also have access to inspiring STEM learning experiences." 

 

Nixon says it's been amazing to see students' eyes opened to the STEM career possibilities ahead of them. "The Virtual STEM Academy is helping shape our country's future innovators," she says.