A key element of the Year 9 curriculum involves learning the disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, The Arts and Mathematics (STEAM). In Semester 1, Year 9 students participate in an immersive STEAM experience at Casey Tech School, where they have the opportunity to develop vital skills for future STEAM careers.

Split into groups and armed with a proposed challenge to address, students use virtual reality, robotics, 3D and other technologies in the Casey Tech learning hubs. This year's challenges proposed to students included developing a bushfire detection system, a rehabilitation wheelchair for the Casey Hospital, design concepts for the National Gallery of Victoria, and developing alternative materials to plastic within the medical industry.

Students collaborate in groups to develop solutions to their selected challenge, which include a marketing pitch and presenting a prototype of their product. Interacting with the facilities available was a highlight of the visit to our partner school program.

“Casey Tech provides a fantastic facility that engages students to solve real-world problems” ~ Mr Scott Camps, Year 9 Coordinator

We are thrilled to be in partnership with Casey Tech from the beginning as a partner school. Students return to campus energised to solve problems with critical thinking and analysis, realising that workplaces face the same issues as they do when learning in the classroom. ~ Mr Darren Martin, Deputy Principal Secondary

"At the end of three days I was proud to show everyone my work. I wish we had more time there." ~ Matthew, Year 9 student

Heritage College worked in partnership with Casey Tech in an advisory capacity over a two-year process to develop its successful program. As part of the ongoing partnership, Year 9 students from Heritage College attend annually in Semester 1.

Next steps:

• Enquire now about enrolling at Heritage College
• Read more about secondary at Heritage College