Year 9 STRIVE STEM

Our Year 9 students are engaged in the STRIVE STEM Program, tackling critical zoo-related challenges in partnership with Zoos Victoria. The program offers hands-on STEM experience, fostering creativity, problem-solving and teamwork. Students are addressing one of three key issues: designing an Animal Monitoring System for tracking endangered species, creating a nest box for Leadbeater’s Possum and Orange-bellied Parrot or developing a 'Go Bag' for Gorilla Doctors.

Recent visits to the different zoos allowed students to gather essential data and interact with experts. Sonia from Year 9 Blue shared that “seeing the gorillas up close and understanding their unique adaptations for their survival” was a highlight of her experience at Werribee Zoo. This firsthand knowledge is crucial for designing the medical kit for gorilla doctors, aiming to enhance care for wild gorillas.

As the term concludes, students will refine their designs based on their research. Their final projects will be presented early in Term 4, showcasing innovative solutions with potential real-world impacts on conservation and animal care. We eagerly anticipate the creative and practical solutions our students will develop.

NICOLE UNWIN AND SALLY FARR