Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths

Science

At St Mary’s we believe that Science is an investigational way of answering interesting and important questions about the biological, physical, chemical and technological world.

Through Science students and teachers are:

• encouraged to expand their curiosity and willingness to explore, ask questions about, make sense of and speculate on the changing world in which they live.
• engaged in a range of hands-on, inquiry opportunities and situations that develop an understanding of important science concepts, processes and skills that promote informed and responsible decisions about local, national and global issues learning to take responsibility, to the greatest possible extent, for their own science learning.
• developing an understanding that science is constantly changing and evolving.
• developing an understanding that science is universal and should transcend the boundaries of gender, cultural, linguistic and national biases.
• developing an appreciation for the scientific contributions of people from various cultures and backgrounds.

Digital Technologies 

In a world that is increasingly digitised and automated, it is critical to the wellbeing and sustainability of the economy, the environment and society, that the benefits of information systems are exploited ethically. This requires deep knowledge and understanding of digital systems (a component of an information system) and how to manage risks. Technology is an integral part of the modern world and allows learning opportunities previously unavailable. At St Mary’s our student-to-computer ratio is commendable and digital technologies are embedded into our teaching and learning programmes across all learning areas within and outside the classrooms.

In addition, each classroom has a set of iPads which create a student-to-iPad ratio of approximately 4:1. Interactive whiteboards are in every classroom throughout the school providing excellent, high resolution display opportunities for learning. 

STEM, drawn from the four disciplines of Science (S), Technology (T), Engineering (E), and Mathematics (M) recognises the importance of this integration and its significance for Australia’s competitive future. Our aim at St Mary's is to embed this in all areas of learning through Conceptual Inquiry. We provide the resources to enhance engagement in STEM by developing practical, hands-on teaching and learning programs and resources that allow students to integrate their knowledge across all areas. 

Our STEM program is outcome-driven learning that fosters inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and innovation. It fosters 21st-century capabilities and skills for our students to be active learners today, and leaders in the future.

Coding is essential to help students thrive in a future driven by technology. Being introduced to coding gives students an appreciation of what can be built with technology. Knowledge of coding assists students to understand how computers work, and imagine and design new devices and services.

Students continually explore imaginative uses of new media tools beyond their basic functional applications, discovering alternative or individual ways to conceptualise the role of digital technologies in their lives. The development of innovative thinking and creative use of technologies prepares students to participate fully in this multifaceted world.