Baldivis STEM program to encourage more girls to study science

Girls aged between eight and 11 are invited to register for a science, technology, engineering and maths program aimed at inspiring the next generation of Australia’s female scientists. The eight-week program presented by Little Genius Science will be hosted at Mary Davies Library and Community Centre in Baldivis from next month and will explore topics such as using electricity to move objects, investigating fossils, and extracting and examining DNA. Participants will also be able to collaborate with female STEM professionals from CSBP Kwinana. City of Rockingham Mayor Deb Hamblin said participants would collaborate, design, solve and experiment in a fun and supportive setting. “STEM skills are increasingly important for workplace innovation and productivity,” Ms Hamblin said “Many growing and emerging industries require people with these skills and programs like Girls in STEM are vital to providing students with the tools to excel in these areas throughout their academic life.” The workshops will be run by Little Genius STEM educator Sarah Curran-Ragan, who said she was excited to promote science in a hands-on way. “We know that females are still under-represented across careers in science, with fewer girls choosing STEM careers. We also know that girls often work differently at school to their male counterparts,” Ms Curran-Ragan said. “Providing children with role models that they can relate to has been proved to be the main influence on career choices. “By creating a female-only environment for STEM learning, we offer a safe space for girls to explore science with female role models. It’s about lighting that spark early on and showing girls the endless possibilities that lie ahead for a career in STEM.” CSBP Chemicals Joint Ventures & AV/Modwood general manager Barney Jones said STEM skills helped drive innovation and productivity in the workplace. “Within our own industry, we have a great variety of exciting STEM careers available that are critical to the operations and success of the business,” Mr Jones said. “That’s why programs like Girls in STEM are so important. Not only are they vital in helping students get excited about these subjects, but they offer a great opportunity for girls to connect with positive female role models in the STEM world and see the real-life possibilities for a future career in STEM.” Bookings open Monday, January 17. For more information or to register for the program, visit rockinghamlibraries.com.au