Connecting STEM learning to the real world at Prince Alfred College

It is evident that we live in a rapidly changing world where we cannot predict what adulthood will be like for our children.

However, research is clear that contemporary education requires students to develop deep knowledge and acquire transversal skills that can be applied to unknown situations in the future. Learning STEM is important for a diverse and capable science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce in the future, whilst being something that ignites the interests of boys today. 

The newly developed STEM program at Prince Alfred College (PAC) incorporates the explicit teaching of knowledge and skills in these areas whilst providing opportunities for boys to apply high-level, complex skills such as computational thinking, design thinking, and project-management skills in exciting, hands-on challenges that connect to the real world. 

Preparatory School boys at PAC apply this knowledge and skills as they get their hands dirty in the garden while learning vermicomposting, lifecycles, and food chains; test and apply different variables and race model small-scale F1 cars; and work with rocket-scientists from SA in the burgeoning space sector. 

PAC understands what is needed for boys’ success in the future, and how to make learning fun for them today.


For more information:

pac.edu.au

 

Follow KIDDO on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter

You may also like

Why stepping outside the classroom matters more than ever in middle school

It happens in a moment. A student halfway up a rock face pauses, frozen by fear and doubt. Below, an instructor calmly encourages: “Take a breath, look around, and take the next step.” The student exhales, refocuses, and reaches the top—exhausted, but transformed. These quiet turning points—part challenge, part breakthrough—are common in outdoor education. And for students in the middle years of schooling, they’re more than just powerful memories. They’re moments of growth.

Read More
A group of young performers energetically showcasing their talents on stage in front of an audience.

Strengthening community connections

At the School of the Nativity, the strength of our community lies in crafting learning opportunities throughout the year that truly connect our families. From playgroup to whole-school celebrations that honour shared experience, it’s about dedicating time to think outside the box and find what brings people together.

Read More