From developing coding skills to exploring the science and technology behind protective clothing and equipment, two new bushfire-focused education courses will benefit from $400,000 in funding, to reach a broader range of Year 5 to 10 students and teachers, as part of the NSW Government’s Bushfire STEM in Schools Program.
Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Alister Henskens said the programs will increase students’ understanding of bushfire management and support schools to build partnerships to help with bushfire preparedness in local communities.
“These courses will educate our young minds about how to manage the threat of natural disasters with science and technology, leading a new generation of scientists and coders developing cutting-edge bushfire management tools,” Mr Henskens said.
The successful recipients are the NSW Rural Fire Service’s Project Firestorm and the Hunter Innovation and Science Hub’s Fire-Ed Up Initiative.
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said each program, aligned with the NSW Curriculum and programs currently being offered in schools, will receive $200,000 to reach a broader range of students and teachers.
“Both of these programs encourage entrepreneurship, and promote STEM career and further study opportunities for students, including in the critically important area of bushfire management,” Ms Mitchell said.
RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said engaging students to learn more about building bushfire awareness can have lifelong benefits, both at home and in school.
“With this increased support, we hope to engage around 500 additional schools and educate a whole new group of students on how technology can be used to reduce the risk of fire in our communities,” Commissioner Rogers said.
More information on this Bushfire Response R&D Mission initiative is available at the Bushfire STEM in Schools Program webpage.
MEDIA
Caterina Polistina | Minister Henskens | 0419 463 370
Samantha McGill | Minister Mitchell | 0419 840 643