News
STEM Week at Fintona is designed to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore their interests through hands-on learning that requires teamwork and problem-solving.
The week opened with Dr Ritu Taneja, a researcher and lecturer at The University of Melbourne, speaking at assembly about using science and technology to address real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Her message set the tone for the week and resonated strongly with students from Years 5 to 12.
Students then took part in a wide range of activities, from STEM-themed Escape Rooms where teams raced against the clock to solve puzzles, to robotic pathway programming with Sphero RVR Robots, motorised windmill construction, and a Planetarium visit. Our Year 12 students competed in a Chemistry Titration Challenge, while younger students experienced virtual reality through VR headsets, built electronic circuits, and trialled professional sports science testing to measure agility, reaction time, accuracy, and power.
The success of the week was clear from the high level of participation, providing an opportunity to connect classroom learning with practical applications, whilst encouraging students to explore their interests and think about STEM in new ways.
As Kevin Christofelsz, Science & Technology Learning Area Leader explained, ‘Awareness is key. STEM Week
helps students see that opportunities are within reach and empowers them to explore, grow, and develop a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.’
