Science Week at Waverley College was a great success, filled with exciting events, engaging talks, and class based activities that sparked curiosity and a deeper appreciation for science among students. Held from Monday, 12 August to Friday, 16 August, the week featured a range of activities aimed at exploring different fields of science, with guest speakers, challenges, and interactive experiences.
Inspiring Talks and Insights
The week kicked off with a captivating talk by Ian Storie who has a wealth of experience in various fields of Science. Ian shared stories of his career journey, spanning engineering companies, CSIRO and a start up company he began, highlighting the importance of problem-solving, innovation, and perseverance in the profession. His engaging presentation introduced students to the vast possibilities in engineering, from designing desalination solutions to developing cutting-edge bee recognition technology. Ian’s talk left students feeling inspired to explore how they, too, could contribute to the world of engineering and science.
Following Ian’s talk, Claire Petite, a veterinarian, delivered an insightful presentation on the fascinating world of veterinary science. Claire discussed the vital role veterinarians play in ensuring the health and well-being of animals, and how students may enter the exciting field of Veterinary medicine. She also shared personal anecdotes from her career, offering students a glimpse into the day-to-day challenges and rewards of working with animals. Her talk was particularly popular with students passionate about animal care and biology.
Fizzics Education Brings Science to Life
For Year 7 and 8 students, the highlight of the week was an exhilarating science show from Fizzics Education. Known for their dynamic approach to science education, the team from Fizzics delivered an interactive show that explored various scientific principles in fun and engaging ways.
From explosive chemical reactions to mind-bending physics demonstrations, the show captivated students and made complex scientific concepts accessible and enjoyable. The students were eager participants, answering questions and even volunteering for some of the demonstrations, making it a memorable experience for all.
Thank you to Bishoy and Mr Peter Lamb for their support and help with this incursion.
Sydney University Incursion on Hydrogen Fuel Cells
One of the hands-on incursions for the week came from Sydney University focusing on hydrogen fuel cells. Undergraduate experts from the university introduced students to this cutting-edge green technology, which promises to revolutionise energy production in the future. Students were fascinated as they learned how hydrogen fuel cells work, generating electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water being the only byproduct.
The incursion featured hands-on activities, allowing students to see hydrogen fuel cells in action and explore their potential applications in everything from powering cars to supplying energy to entire cities. Students were able to build a model car including a hydrogen fuel cell which was able to power the car to move and light up. This session underscored the importance of sustainable energy solutions and inspired students to think critically about the future of energy and their role in shaping it.
Thank you to Ms Silvia Baylie who organised this fantastic experience for the students.
Hands-On Challenges
Throughout the week, students were also invited to participate in various science challenges in class that tested their problem-solving skills and creativity. These challenges ranged from participating in Escape rooms to tackling challenges relating to Species sustainability and survival. The hands-on activities allowed students to apply scientific principles in a fun and practical way, fostering teamwork and critical thinking.
Recess Colouring Challenge in the Library
Science Week wasn’t all about high-tech demonstrations and expert talks—it also brought some creative fun to the school! On Thursday during recess, Mr. William Roberts hosted a Colouring Challenge in the library, where students could unwind and unleash their artistic talents. The competition attracted a lot of enthusiasm, as students coloured images of Earl the Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon. Students were able to enter their designs to the state-wide Stile competition to win a new pair of AirPods! This added incentive made the library a buzzing hub of creativity and friendly competition.
A Week to Remember
Science Week was a resounding success, bringing science to life for students and showcasing the endless possibilities within the field. With inspiring guest speakers like Ian Storie and Claire Petite, as well as the interactive Fizzics Education show, students were given a unique opportunity to explore different scientific disciplines and imagine their own futures in science.
We look forward to seeing how the seeds of inspiration planted during Science Week will grow in the years to come!
