Exploring new horizons at discovery centre

BENDIGO’S Discovery Science and Technology Centre will expand its Curious Kids science, technology, engineering and maths program to 10 regional libraries in Central Victoria over the next two years thanks to a grant from the Federal Government.

The $98,000 in funding has been made available through the latest round of the Maker Projects – Community STEM Engagement Grants initiative.

The newly coined Beyond Curious: Expanding STEM Horizons in Regional Libraries program will be delivered in partnership with Goldfields Libraries and is designed for children aged three to five years old, providing access to STEM sessions in safe library spaces.

The sessions will introduce early learners to scientific concepts in a fun and age-appropriate way, while school holiday workshops will offer older students opportunities to explore topics like robotics, circuits, astronomy and AI.

Discovery’s general manager Alissa Van Soest said the funding means the centre will be able to reach more young families to engage them with science education.

“It means we’re going to get to go out into the community and show people that science is fun and that you can be a scientist if you want to,” she said. “By the age of eight, a lot of children have been turned off of science or maths.

“They think they’re not smart enough to do it (so) getting in early and showing them they can, that the possibility is there for them, is really important.

“We love getting to share STEM with everyone, and the fact that we now have a grant means that that cost barrier is now over for so many families.”

Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said the Makers Projects grants give young Australians equal access to STEM learning, including those who are historically underrepresented in the field like girls or young people who live in regional areas.

“As a mum of a three and five-year-old, I know how important opportunities like this are,” Ms Chesters said.

“Children are inquisitive, and having the opportunity to engage them in STEM activities in local libraries is a great way to help foster a love of science from a young age.”