Students enjoy an electrifying return to school
Students at Coburg West, Mickleham Primary and Sunbury Primary Schools had an electrifying return to school this week with energy experts from leading energy infrastructure company Jemena and energy services provider Zinfra delivering online talks, in an extension of recent International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February) celebrations.
Delivered as part of the Australian Resources and Energy Group AMMA’s Bright Future STEM Program, female role models digitally joined more than 200 year 5 and 6 students to share their experiences working in the energy sector, and encourage interest and uptake of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects and careers — particularly amongst young women.
The initiative responds to findings from the data report and that women make up less than a quarter of students studying STEM, while parents and teachers are the greatest influencer groups of young people’s education and career decisions.
Kristen Stribley, Strategy Analyst from Jemena and Zinfra, said it is important for students to be introduced to the exciting and ever-evolving world of STEM and energy from early on.
“Research shows many kids make decisions about whether they’re interested in science, maths and technology subjects early on in their schooling, rather than at high school or during tertiary study,” Ms Stribley said.
“The energy sector offers a range of interesting and diverse career choices – at Jemena and Zinfra we have roles ranging from the crews who build and maintain electricity and gas networks, to engineers who are helping to design green hydrogen and biomethane facilities, to IT professionals who develop and support the online systems that underpin how we manage critical energy.
“As someone who enjoyed humanities subjects like English and History at school but now has a more STEM focused career, I want all kids, and especially girls, to know it’s important to keep an open mind, explore different subjects and never be afraid to follow your dreams.”
AMMA Operations Director Tara Diamond said role models form a critical role within the program.
“AMMA is thrilled to work with Jemena and Zinfra to deliver this remote opportunity for students to engage in STEM at an early age,” she said.
“In particular, female industry STEM role models play a critical role in the program to help breakdown gender stereotypes and inspire young girls to follow a passion for STEM. As the program continues to grow and evolve, with expanded initiatives and new and improved activities, we’re proudly continuing to inspire the next-gen of STEM professionals and resources and energy workforce.”
Topics explored as part of the sessions included: How does electricity get to your home? How do electric vehicles work, and How much energy does Melbourne Airport use? Students also took part in an interactive in-class experiment, using thermometers and glasses of warm water wrapped in various materials to learn about energy and heat conservation, and how this works around the home.
In addition to presentations, participating schools receive information packs with hands-on learning activities like electric circuit kits, helping to light up students’ interest in both STEM subjects and working together as a team, particularly after recent returns to the classroom.
The sessions follow similar Bright Future visits hosted by Jemena and AMMA in 2021 for over 100 students across Melbourne’s west, in celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
