STEM+ enrichment class

What is STEM?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. STEM learning encourages students to think creatively, solve problems, ask questions, design solutions, and explore how things work in the world around them.

At Islington Public School, STEM learning may include activities such as coding, robotics, engineering challenges, science investigations, digital technologies, design projects, sustainability initiatives, mathematics problem-solving, and hands-on innovation tasks.

Our STEM Enrichment Class aims to nurture curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking while providing opportunities for students to explore their passions and strengths.

What will the program involve?

• A co-educational High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) class for students in Years 5 and 6

• The class will extend and enrich students in STEM and all learning areas

• In a unique offering, students will be taught by a specialist STEM teacher and a trained high potential and gifted education teacher

• Students will participate in advanced project-based work to extend their skills in critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration, communication and creativity

How is Entry Determined?

• Entry is determined based on a student presentation to the application selection panel

• A rubric, and hints an tips information is sent to parents in the email confirming the meeting time

• Attendance and engagement at a STEM immersion day hosted at Islington Public School

• Discussions with your child's current class teacher to assess suitability

Who can apply?

Students in Years 4 and 5 from all schools may apply

Does my child need to be a STEM expert to apply?

• Applicants do not need prior expertise in STEM to apply

• Applicants will benefit from being interested and motivated to engage with STEM activities and learning

• The STEM+ enrichment class is for high potential and gifted students

• Students will be extended in all learning areas. In addition to this, students will engage in STEM learning experiences

What benefits does the STEM class offer?

• Students are most excited when they learn at their level

• Students’ learning is enhanced when they work with like-minded, motivated and capable peers

• Project-based learning promotes higher-order thinking, creativity, teamwork and problem solving

• The STEM+ class offers this and more

When does the program begin?

• Applications for 2027 entry are now open.

• The program commences in Term 1 2027

STEM+ class enrolments and siblings

• Enrolment in the STEM+ class is by selection process only

• Sibling enrolments are welcomed and can be accommodated, as we currently have enrolment availability to support additional family placements

How will the STEM+ class benefit Islington Public School students?

• The STEM+ class strengthens the whole school focus on high potential learning

• STEM teachers will work with classes across the school

Joining the Islington Public School community

We know that Islington Public School is a wonderful school community to belong to and wish to reassure you that there are other options for joining us.

If a place is not available for the STEM+ program in 2027, Local and non-local enrolment applications can be submitted via the school website.

Parents complete the STEM Enrichment Class application form via the school website.

-Once applications are received and reviewed, you will be notified if you are progressing to the selection panel.

Students will be allocated an application panel meeting time during school hours.

-Each meeting will run for approximately 15 minutes.

During the meeting, students will deliver a 5–10 minute presentation showcasing a STEM project, interest, passion, or area of learning they have been engaging with or enjoy exploring.

Students are encouraged to present in a format that best reflects their interests and strengths. This may include:

• A speech or talk
• PowerPoint or digital presentation
• A diorama or model
• A science experiment or demonstration
• Coding or robotics projects
• A design portfolio or engineering prototype
• A video presentation
• Artwork or 3D creations connected to STEM
• A research project or investigation
• A Minecraft or digital design showcase

The presentation is an opportunity for students to share their curiosity, creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for STEM learning. Full details will be emailed to families once the application form has been submitted.

As part of the selection process, applicants will be invited to attend a STEM Immersion Day at Islington Public School. This exciting day will provide students with the opportunity to engage in a range of hands-on STEM challenges and investigations.

The Immersion Day allows students to showcase their problem-solving skills, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and application to task in an authentic learning environment. Most importantly, it provides an opportunity for us to see students' curiosity in action as they explore new ideas, ask questions, persevere through challenges, and engage with complex problems.

The day is designed to be enjoyable, engaging, and inclusive, giving students the chance to demonstrate the learning dispositions that support success in STEM learning.

Families will be notified in Week 9 Term 3, the week commencing Monday 14th September 2026.

If successful, students in the STEM+ Enrichment Class will be invited to participate in a transition program in Term 4.