A STEM outreach program aiming to inspire primary aged students has been announced through a partnership with BAE Systems Australia and local specialist education technology company, Lumination.

‘Beacon’ will offer students in Years 4 to 6 an opportunity to solve real world challenges related to sustainability using leading-edge, immersive technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, robotics and 3D modelling.

Initially, the program will involve 15 schools across South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia with plans for growth over three years. It will be offered in two delivery modes: a five-day intensive camp or a 10-week program connecting learning outcomes to the curriculum.

Beacon will also aim to engage students in lower socio-economic regions who may not have access to programs and technologies such as this.

Rebecca Bendikov, Head of Education at Lumination, says the company is passionate about supporting students to solve real world problems.

“Beacon engaged primary aged students with emerging technology, giving them new skills to take back to the classroom and inspiring them for a future career in STEM,” said Bendikov.

“We’re delighted to partner with BAE Systems to inspire students to learn about the application of immersive technology, while also developing skills related to inclusivity, honesty, innovative thinking, teamwork, boldness and goal setting.”

CEO of BAE Systems Australia, Ben Hudson, said he is proud to be supporting an initiative that encourages problem solving and innovation.

“At a time when the number of STEM students across Australia is falling, industry needs to step up to inspire more students to remain in STEM subjects so they might consider an exciting career solving some of the world’s biggest challenges,” Hudson said.

“Our goal with this program is to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM on a national scale, to keep students engaged in their education and raise awareness of future career opportunities.

“I’m delighted that our partnership with Lumination will also open the door to students who might not otherwise be aware of the enormous opportunities for the highly skilled, well-paid careers from a STEM-focused education.”

To find out more about the program, reach out to the Lumination Education team

Image: Lumination’s Head of Education, Rebecca Bendikov, with students testing the company’s technology.