Science and Engineering Challenge 2016

Last Tuesday March 15 the Science and Engineering Challenge was held

at the University of New England. Thirty-two Year 5 and Year 6 students

from Ben Venue took part in this wonderful experience.

The Science and Engineering Challenge is an initiative presented by the

University of Newcastle, in cooperation with the University of New

England and Armidale Central Rotary Club. It is an initiative designed to

provide enrichment to budding young scientists in their senior years of

primary school, with the hope of inspiring them to pursue science and/or

engineering fields not only in high school, but also beyond.

As a part of the Highlands Cluster, Ben Venue Public School

enthusiastically participated in this day-long event, which provided practical, positive experiences in

science and engineering, through investigative, hands-on evaluative experiments in a variety of areas.

In teams of four, the students from schools around the District battled against one another in two half-day

activities. Team work, ‘Persistence’ and of course ‘Resilience’ were essential to planning, designing, making

and achieving successful results.

The students engineered catapults, robotic hands, all-terrain vehicles which

travelled comfortably over rough terrain, towers that could potentially

withstand an earthquake and mapped electrical power grids. Others

designed and built a bridge, made using paddle pop sticks and styrofoam,

which could carry a load of ‘gold’ across a specific span.

All students applied themselves enthusiastically and worked extremely well

in their groups. It was a very enjoyable, educational experience for all!

The students and teachers from Ben Venue would like to thank Dr Peter Lye

and his wonderful team of volunteers who went above and beyond to make

our science and engineering experience so amazing.

Science Coordinator, Rebecca O’Hara

What a spectacular turnout of students and staff. This is a great way to showcase our school to the community

and feedback from a number of community members indicated that we looked fabulous! Thank you to the

teachers who gave up their Saturday to be involved and a special thanks to Sally Spillane for organising us so well.