STEM in the Primary Years

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, reflective thinking, communication and digital literacy.

At Toowoomba Anglican School, classes in the primary years enjoy one semester a year of weekly STEM classes with Mr Hoppe. Students have engaged in an array of open-ended tasks and challenges such as egg capsule creations plummeting off of balconies, newspaper towers reaching to the skies, putting design concepts to the test and toilet paper team activities. Embedded in each of these lessons are modelled, guided and independent opportunities for students to ask questions, work together, think creatively, test solutions to problems and learn from others. They are also great fun too!

STEM thinking permeates across the curriculum framework of the school and has even found its way into the homes and living rooms of several TAS families as students have sought to further explore concepts and ideas presented in the classroom.

Our STEM program has also been a wonderful opportunity for our new Deputy of Primary, Mr Hoppe, to develop positive relationships with students from Prep to Year Six and to celebrate the curious and creative thinkers that we have at TAS.