- An additional 100 primary school classrooms are to be converted into science labs in 2020 and 2021
- The McGowan Government is delivering a key election commitment to focus on science in schools
The second round of 100 public primary schools has been selected to have existing classrooms converted into science laboratories to give students hands-on, high-quality science lessons.
The McGowan Government's $17 million election commitment includes $12 million to transform 200 existing primary school classrooms into science laboratories by 2021, with an additional $5 million for resources.
Each school has identified an area to be transformed into a science laboratory.
In addition, each school will receive $25,000 to purchase laboratory equipment and resources such as 3D models of the solar system and human anatomy, digital microscopes, 3D printers, virtual reality headsets, robotics kits and renewable energy kits.
The next 100 successful schools were announced today during a visit to the newly transformed science lab at Sutherland Dianella Primary School, one of the primary schools selected in the first round.
The new science laboratory has created a flexible and adaptive space for science to be taught, using a range of science resources.
Primary schools across Western Australia - from the Kimberley to the Great Southern - put up their hands for the program. Schools were selected based on their plans to grow and improve science education at their schools to skill students for the jobs of the future.
As noted by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"We know how important it is for today's students to understand the concepts taught in science, technology, engineering and mathematics for their future job prospects.
"These dedicated laboratories and resources enable schools to give students a feel for the interesting world of science from a young age.
"The vibrant learning environment in the new science lab at Sutherland Dianella Primary School is a fantastic example of what the next round of schools can look forward to."
As noted by Science Minister Dave Kelly:
"The McGowan Government is investing in science to ensure Western Australians have the right skills for the jobs of the future.
"Having access to modern laboratories in primary school will encourage an interest in science from a young age, which will hopefully last a lifetime."
As noted by Mount Lawley MLA Simon Millman:
"The McGowan Government is preparing WA kids for the jobs of the future.
"Sutherland Dianella Primary School has a strong STEM focus which is integrated across all learning areas, and the newly converted laboratory means a greater learning experience for students.
"I'm thrilled Yokine Primary School has been successful in the next round and will have a classroom converted to a science lab by 2021 - WA's next generation will be inspired and supported right here in our community."
