A new partnership project that allows our students to learn alongside Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel has been introduced by the College to further enrich STEM and Career Development programs.
The Defence Technologies Extension Partnership, which started earlier this month, invites guest ADF members to join our Year 10 mechatronic class each Friday and mentor students working on College, Defence or personal projects.
Principal Jamie Hayres said the innovative project had wide-ranging benefits for Comet Bay College students.
“Our students are getting a first-hand understanding of the real-world applications of their mechatronic, engineering and electrical technology studies,” he said.
“Just last week, our students were presented with a challenge to fix a leaking submersible drone, used by Defence personnel. They had to identify the problem, dismantle the drone, correct the fault and reassemble the instrument.
“This practical application of their theoretical and technical studies will generate greater interest in their STEM subjects while showcasing some of the career pathways available within the Australian Defence Force.”
Defence School Mentor and Career Development Events Coordinator Claire Hunt said ADF personnel were impressed by the College’s STEM facilities and programs and were inspired by the students’ creative minds.
“Visiting personnel who work alongside our Year 10 students each Friday are also collaborating with some of our Year 9 to 12 students after school in a new Robot Wars challenge,” Ms Hunt said.
“The students and ADF members are working in teams to design and build battery-powered robots which will compete in a battle next month.
“The challenge is just another way we are fostering our relationship with Australian Defence Force members to give our students exposure to advanced mentoring, new experiences and enhanced learning opportunities.”
The Defence Technologies Extension Partnership will run until December 11, with plans to extend the project next year.