South Australia's Defence Industry

Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary program is a free professional development opportunity designed to enhance teachers’ skills in delivering STEM education.

Chloe Heffernan, a STEM coordinator from South Australia’s Flaxmill School P-6, utilises Questacon’s Engineering is Elementary program in her classroom and recognises the importance of an early introduction to science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).

“Primary school kids are the key. If you don’t engage them early in STEM thinking, by high school it’s too late,” Heffernan said.

“The program makes such a difference. It builds a positive STEM identity for our kids. It’s not even a ‘lightbulb’ moment for them, it’s like their brains are exploding!”

“It’s so much more than just learning the concepts; a key benefit is the growth mindset. If students haven’t been exposed to STEM, they think there’s just one right answer to a question. By adding the real-world context though, they suddenly understand that they’re trying to actually fix things and make a difference.”

Questacon delivers the Engineering is Elementary program nationally and are supported by the Australian Department of Defence.

The program is recognised in the SA Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Action Plan for its impact, engaging South Australian primary school students in STEM learning to shape their early career aspirations.