STEM Academy
STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Through STEM, students develop key skills including problem-solving, creativity, critical analysis, teamwork, independent thinking, initiative, communication, and digital literacy – all skills needed for success in the real world.
Comet Bay College launched its STEM Academy in 2021 after identifying a need to prepare students for a rapidly-changing world. Our vision was to develop future-focused, future-ready students through a whole-school approach to innovation and engagement using STEM-related practices. It promotes a culture of inquiry, creative exploration and independent learning while challenging our students to maximise their individual talents and abilities. Our students must be able to not only solve known problems, but identify future challenges faced by future generations.
Students in the STEM Academy will benefit from four periods of tailored STEM activities each week, which complement their MESH (Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities) studies. These may include engineering fundamentals, aerodynamics, renewable energy, motion electronics, design and scientific investigation. They are also encouraged to participate in a range of STEM opportunities on offer at the College, including robotics, solar car and aeronautical velocity challenges.
The STEM Academy is a selective, entry program for students in Years 7 to 10. Students in Years 6 to 9 who are curious about the world around them can apply for entry to following year. Successful applicants will be students who demonstrate an ability, interest and enthusiasm for Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics and their real-world applications.
Comet Bay College has invested many years building a culture of STEM skills and cross-curricular Project Based Learning activities. It is a STEM Teacher Development School, a STEM Mentor school and a STEM Hub for the training of pre-service teachers. The College also hosts two programs to foster STEM skills in primary school-aged students – The Nautilus Club for students in kindergarten to Year 4 and the Master Class for Year 5 and 6 students. These programs were introduced in 2012 in a bid to nurture gifted minds, and provide a great foundation for students interested in the STEM Academy pathway.
