Living STEM, a unique program supporting primary and secondary school teachers to embed local Indigenous Knowledges in Pilbara classrooms, is set to continue in 2026 with fresh initiatives to strengthen culturally connected, hands-on STEM learning for students and educators across the region.
Delivered by CSIRO, Australia's national science agency, in collaboration with Chevron Australia, the Living STEM program has fostered strong partnerships between schools and local Indigenous communities since its launch in 2023.
Last year, the Living STEM program engaged with 31 schools and delivered professional learning to 57 educators, including 39 teachers, 10 school leaders, and six Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers.
In 2026, the program will undertake a new initiative supporting Indigenous Rangers to connect young people with Indigenous Knowledges through STEM, in partnership with the Pilbara Ranger Network.
Ruth Carr, Director of CSIRO Education and Outreach, said Living STEM is successful because it's grounded in local knowledge and leadership.
"By working alongside Indigenous Rangers, community and local organisations, we're ensuring young people see STEM as something real, relevant and connected to their lives," Ms Carr said.
"This next phase will deepen those connections and open even more opportunities for students and teachers across the Pilbara."
Living STEM will also establish a new Community of Practice to strengthen and embed science-based learning and practice across the region. Co-designed and delivered On Country with community organisations, the program will include:
- Professional learning sessions and workshops
- Community of Practice Teacher Leader enablement
- A Community of Practice Networking event
- Ongoing resource sharing.
"The new Community of Practice will provide educators with a platform to stay connected and work together to address challenges, ensuring the program continues to make an impact across the local community. It will also foster ongoing collaboration among teachers and enable deeper engagement with Traditional Owners," Ms Carr said.
Chevron Australia Community and Reputation Manager Jill Byrne said the program highlights the value of strong partnerships in supporting education outcomes and future opportunities.
"Living STEM connects classroom learning with local knowledge and hands on experiences," Ms Byrne said.
"It shows how partnerships can support education outcomes and help create future STEM opportunities for young people across the Pilbara."
Living STEM educators also help schools strengthen leadership roles, embed STEM learning and practices, and expand the program's reach, fostering sustainable partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and advancing reconciliation and respect for local Indigenous cultures.
Through the program, students gain hands-on-enquiry-driven experiences that connect classroom learning with Indigenous scientific knowledges that spark pathways into STEM careers.
