The West Gate Kids school engagement program recently achieved another massive milestone, reaching more than 13,000 students from diverse backgrounds across Melbourne’s inner west.
Created for primary students between the ages of 6 and 12, the program promotes the study of science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM) subjects.
Led by Dr Lorien Parker, aka ‘Dr Loz’, West Gate Kids uses urban design challenges from the West Gate Tunnel Project to teach kids how to think like a scientist and create like an engineer.
Dr Loz said that the considered design of the West Gate Kids program allows kids to participate in hands-on, experience-based learning that is engaging, inclusive and accessible to all types of learners.
‘This means that neurodivergent learners, like myself (Autistic and ADHD) can more easily explore STEAM concepts, linked to local examples, confidently and creatively,’ Dr Loz said.
‘By linking the learning to examples students actually see in their day-to-day, we make the learning significantly more relevant.’
‘By making the learning a fun experience, rather than a lesson, we make science and engineering seem much less intimidating, which engages more students into the conversation, encouraging them to take bigger risks in their designs and creativity.’
