Scientists in schools
The Scientists in Schools program promotes science education in primary and secondary schools throughout Australia, it helps to engage and motivate students in their learning of science, and broadens awareness of the types and variety of exciting careers available in the sciences.
This program is funded under the Quality Outcomes Program administered by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. The Education section of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) manages the program.
The Scientists in Schools program allows teachers and students to work with a scientist in a flexible, professional on-going partnership. The scientist can act as mentor, role model or inspiration for students, providing teachers and students with access to new ideas and fresh perspectives in science. In turn, teachers and students will help scientists to see their work from a new angle and to stay engaged with the public perception of their work.
IChemE encourages all whynotchemeng volunteers to also register as Scientists in schools. This does not mean any additional volunteer commitments on top of your whynotchemeng activities, but does offer you a number of advantages including:
- Attending an induction event in your local area - a good opportunity to catch up with today’s education systems and jargon
- Regional contacts and networking opportunities
- Insurance cover for Scientist in Schools events
- A free criminal records check - schools throughout Australia require varying levels of checks for non-teachers in ongoing contact with students.
Visit http://www.scientistsinschools.edu.au to find out more about Scientists in Schools and to enroll in the program.