05 Jun 2019
The NSW Cyber Security Network (NSWCSN), identified Vincentia High School (VHS) as enthusiastically leading the way with STEM/iSTEM, through our implementation of curriculum frameworks within a NSW secondary school. VHS is one of eighty schools across the State to be given $1000 to spend on teaching resources and infrastructure to help teachers deliver cyber/STEM subjects that will inspire students to take up careers in cyber security.
The shortage of cyber security skills in NSW is acute and is affecting Government institutions and industry. The NSWCSN workforce development program are offering support for schools in the form of; additional teaching support and resources tailored to individual schools and/or a ‘cyber ambassador’ program to connect cyber security professionals and early-career graduates with high school students.
VHS recently enroled for the CSIRO STEM Professionals in Schools program, which is a national volunteer program that facilitates partnerships between schools and industry to bring real STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) into the classroom.
This program creates and supports long term partnerships between school teachers and volunteer STEM professionals – bringing the knowledge and expertise of people who live and breathe STEM together with the teaching expertise of teachers to enrich student learning. The partnerships involve a two-way exchange of professional expertise, to complement and enhance the teacher’s teaching practice and giving STEM professionals an opportunity to share their knowledge, experiences and expertise with the next generation. CSIRO will provide connections with enthusiastic STEM professionals keen to engage with VHS students.
Students will learn critical thinking in a school context with skills relevant beyond the classroom and gain direct access to a practicing STEM professional for career inspiration and employment opportunities. The Technical and Applied Science (TAS) Faculty at Vincentia High School, strive to be the leaders in STEM/iSTEM projects, by providing incredible opportunities for their students to gain the necessary skills for future employment.