Holmwood Public School students swapped their usual classroom for a launchpad of ideas last week, joining schools from across regional NSW in Parkes to showcase their designs for the Kids in Space program.
From 3D-printed prototypes to bold visions of life beyond Earth, Holmwood’s young innovators and their peers were out to show that the next generation of space explorers may already be in our own backyard.
Kids in Space is an Australia-first program from The Andy Thomas Space Foundation and delivery partner, Makers Empire, that engages students in exciting, space-themed STEM learning and design thinking.
The program also promotes awareness of job opportunities in the space industry to help spark students’ interest in space careers.
Each participating school received a package worth $6,500 to give them valuable tools and resources including professional development and training, Makers Empire 3D design tools and resources, access to a custom, space-themed Challenge Course delivered via the Makers Empire 3D app, and a 3D printer so students designs could be printed out and tested.
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“With almost 700 applications from teachers across Australia for Kids in Space, it’s clear that Australian schools are more eager than ever to help students develop an interest in space,” Peter Nikoloff, Executive Director, Andy Thomas Space Foundation, said.
“We’re excited to continue encouraging more Australian students and teachers to develop an interest in space, so more students are motivated to consider a career in space."
Jon Soong, CEO of Makers Empire, said they're happy to partner with the Andy Thomas Space Foundation and the Australian Space Agency again.
“We love engaging students in STEM learning with industry links and real-world applications, and helping them develop vital skills in problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, communication and citizenship,” he said.
Students from as far afield as Lithgow, Blayney, Spring Hill, Hillston and Dubbo brought their research materials, prototypes and 3D printed solutions to their design challenge in Parkes.
With judges including Shi Dai, CSIRO Parkes Lead scientist astronomer and astrophysicist, Kelly Hendry from DPIRD, Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott and Sean Sloane from Parkes Toyota, students received insight and feedback with the showcase culminating with awards from both judges and student peers.
The Awards presenter and speaker was Peter Nikoloff, the Executive Director of The Andy Thomas Space Foundation.
Neville Public School will represent New South Wales at the National Kids in Space Showcase in November, to be held at the Australian Space Discovery Centre in Adelaide.
