An enthusiastic team of 25 of our Year 10 students recently participated in the Northern Rivers Science and Engineering Challenge, held at the Southern Cross University Lismore campus. Pitting their skills against other bright young people from the region, the Year 10 Science students came away with the second highest marks at the annual challenge, and a well-deserved award for best team spirit. The trophy can be admired in the High School office, along with trophies from previous years.
For the Challenge, each of the participating eight schools had teams of three to four members competing in different competitive activities involving science and engineering concepts, which were presented to the judges at the end of the day. Activities included developing rail networks that convey trains in the most efficient way possible; constructing a bionic hand using straws and PVC piping; building a tall earthquake-proof tower using only basic materials; and designing a Mars Rover to carry a precariously balanced load over a rough surface.
The students worked together as a team and tackled the activities with revolutionary fervor. The bridge was the final challenge and although Hugh, Dylan, Saxon and Tashi worked tirelessly against time to ensure its success, unfortunately it could not hold the final mass. It was a fantastic day out also providing a snapshot of possible career paths for the students.
Marie Perry
Science Teacher