The Upper Coomera State College STEM Academy is a specialist program designed for students in Years 7 to 9 who demonstrate a strong interest and ability in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The STEM Academy nurtures inquisitive minds and challenges students to think deeply, work collaboratively, and apply their learning to real-world scenarios.
This program is ideal for students who love exploring how things work, solving complex problems, and using creativity and logic to design better solutions for the future.
The Upper Coomera State College STEM Academy is dedicated to developing confident, capable learners equipped with the tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
Our program nurtures a broad range of capabilities, including:
- Skills: Research, learning through inquiry, problem-solving, and technical proficiency across a variety of tools and platforms. Students develop strong observation, experimentation, and data analysis abilities, along with effective presentation and communication techniques.
- Ways of Thinking: Analytical and logical reasoning, critical thinking, structured problem-solving, and open-minded exploration. Students are encouraged to be systematic, objective, and creative thinkers.
- Knowledge: Deep understanding of scientific processes, STEM-specific subject matter, and foundational vocabulary across science, mathematics, and technology disciplines.
The Academy curriculum is designed to extend students through a rigorous andchallenging academic pathway across all key subject areas.
Key Objectives:
The STEM Academy aims to:
- foster a passion for STEM disciplines through engaging, hands-on learning
- build strong foundations in scientific thinking, mathematics, and digital technologies
- encourage innovative problem-solving and collaborative learning
- prepare students for success in senior STEM subjects and related careerpathways
- develop resilience, curiosity, and critical thinking skills
Program Involvement:
Students in the STEM Academy will participate in a wide range of activities including:
- coding and robotics projects
- scientific investigations and experiments
- engineering design challenges
- mathematics enrichment tasks
- STEM competitions and excursions
- industry guest speakers and university partnerships
The program offers a stimulating and supportive environment where students can grow as learners, thinkers, and future change-makers.
Students may choose to apply for all Academy Programs or one stand-alone Academy Program.
Academy Programs applications are open to students living both inside and outside the catchment area for Upper Coomera State College.
Contact details
Bradley Crichton
Head of Department, STEM
Email: bjcri0@eq.edu.au