As part of National Science Week, the Turnbull Government will provide $10 million for CSIRO to extend the Scientist and Mathematicians in Schools programme.
The programme links practising scientists, mathematicians, engineers and IT professionals with classroom teachers and their students.
“The Turnbull Government is focused on inspiring the next generation of young Australians to be excited about the opportunities of being engaged in science, technology, engineering and maths,” Minister Hunt said.
“The Scientist and Mathematicians in Schools programme aims to increase student interest and motivation in science, technology, engineering and maths through real-world exposure.”
“It’s imperative that we equip the kids of today with these skills so they can be part of a bright future and create a culture of innovation in our country.”
Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said as of 30 June 2016, the Scientist and Mathematicians in Schools programme boasted 1972 active partnerships with teachers involved from 1300 schools across the country.
“A recent evaluation of the program by Deakin University has highlighted collaborative partnership programs like Scientist and Mathematicians in Schools mean students are more interested and get better results in these subjects,” Minister Birmingham said.
“As one of Australia’s largest skilled volunteering programs, Scientist and Mathematicians in Schools helps to bridge the skills gap by bringing real world experience into the classroom.”
The programme currently has more than 300 organisations providing professionals who work in partnership with teachers in Australian schools.
The $10 million in funding, which is through the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) partnerships with Schools initiative under the Government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda, will be allocated to the programme over the next four years.
CSIRO will continue to manage the program over the next four years, working with Australian educators from Foundation to Year 12.
The program is looking for new teachers and STEM professionals to get involved in the program to inspire students.
Learn more or register your interest here: http://www.csiro.au/en/Education/Programs/SMiS