The FizzicsEd Podcast

From her roots on a New South Wales farm to leading education for Cotton Australia, Jenny Hughes is cultivating the future of food and fibre education. Learn classroom ready ideas for teaching about cotton in your classroom, whether you're from the city or the country. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Jenny Hughes Jenny Hughes brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as Education Manager at Cotton Australia, where she leverages her background in teaching, event organisation, communications, and hospitality. Originally from a sheep and wheat property in central New South Wales, Jenny’s deep-rooted connection to agriculture fuels her commitment to food and fibre education. In her current role, she is a strategic thought leader and influencer, known for her advanced relationship skills and extensive network. Her responsibilities include managing the Cotton Classroom resource library, creating curriculum-linked educational materials, and supporting teachers and undergraduates through scholarships to attend relevant events. She also oversees the Teach the Teacher Field Trips program, delivers workshops at education and career events, and manages Cotton Australia's interactive displays at major agricultural shows like The Sydney Royal and EKKA. About Cotton Australia Cotton Australia is the peak body for Australia’s cotton growers, representing up to 1,500 cotton farming families, predominantly in New South Wales and Queensland with a committed and increasing number of growers in the emerging markets of the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Learn more click here. YouTube Channel Seed to Sock Video Water Allocations Explained Sustainability in Cotton Google Arts & Culture page Facebook Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get inspired as we hear from Cran Middlecoat, aviator, survivor, and relentless motivator. His story is extraordinary and he now works with students through to boardrooms on helping us overcome our own barriers to perfection & failure and in doing so, build resilience and opportunities for success. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Cran Middlecoat From his earliest days in Brisbane, Australia, Cran's profound connection with the skies was unmistakable, achieving his pilot's license well before most people even learned to drive. This early passion saw him taking his school teachers on flights, a testament to an innate love for aviation that would become deeply ingrained in his life. Cran's journey soared through thousands of hours in the cockpit, an odyssey that spanned the vast and rugged landscapes of outback Australia while serving with the Royal Flying Doctors, to the dynamic environments of international airports where he skillfully piloted massive jet airliners. However, Cran's narrative took a significant turn when confronted with his own mortality, waking up in intensive care with a permanently altered perspective. From this challenging experience emerged a man with a clear purpose: to redefine the concept of failure, dismantle the myth of perfection, and embrace the necessary discomfort of personal growth. Today, Cran's influence extends beyond the cockpit as a highly sought-after motivational keynote speaker. From corporate boardrooms to global auditoriums, his message resonates deeply with those seeking transformation. He powerfully conveys that failure is not a finality but an essential stage in the journey toward success, and that genuine progress requires the resilience developed through practice. Hailing from Brisbane, Cran is also a dedicated father to two young aspiring aviators, nurturing in them the same fervent passion for flight that defines his own life. As Cran travels the world, his core message remains constant: failure should not be feared but embraced, as it holds the potential for remarkable growth. Through his authentic storytelling and unwavering spirit, Cran ignites a sense of resilience in his audiences, reminding everyone that even in the face of adversity, our capacity to rise above is limitless. Learn more https://cranmiddlecoat.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how Future You aims to inspire children's STEM curiosity. Join Program Ambassador Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, an award-winning astrophysicist renowned for making the universe accessible as we explore Future You helps kids imagine their future possibilities. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Future You Future You, a UNSW Sydney-led initiative, sparks STEM curiosity in 8-12 year olds through free, engaging resources for students, teachers, and parents. Connecting real-world STEM skills with the Australian Curriculum, the program offers practical activities, diverse role models, and inspiring fiction to make STEM relevant and exciting. Future You empowers families to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics together. Learn more https://futureyouaustralia.com.au/ About Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, Program Ambassador. Lisa is an award-winning astrophysicist and author with a gift for making the universe accessible to all. With over 55 research papers and key roles in the development and operation of radio telescopes globally, her contributions to astronomy are many. Lisa’s passion for sharing knowledge extends beyond research. She’s a best-selling author and an engaging keynote speaker. Her books have received national and international acclaim, and she’s a familiar face from ABC’s Stargazing Live. Lisa has also hosted live events featuring Apollo Moon astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Gene Cernan, and Charlie Duke, captivating audiences in sold-out theatres across the country. On top of all of that, she’s passionate about getting your students excited about the amazing and rewarding career possibilities within STEM. Learn more https://www.lisaharveysmith.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We speak with Daniel Edwards, an award-winning STEM educator from Tasmania, and learn about his innovative programs at Montello Primary and Parklands High Schools. We'll also explore his role as CEO of GreenSTEM Education, highlighting his efforts to bring equitable STEM opportunities to students through projects like Greenpower Tasmania. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About GreenSTEM Education GreenSTEM Education is a registered charity based in NW Tasmania, dedicated to advancing education by providing equitable access to excellence in STEM for all young people and the wider community, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Learn more https://greenstem.org.au/ About Daniel Edwards Daniel Edwards is a dedicated STEM educator with the Tasmanian Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP). At Montello Primary School, he oversees an acclaimed STEM program, crafting immersive, practical learning experiences that motivate students to delve into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Additionally, Daniel brings his expertise to Parklands High School, embedding STEM education throughout the curriculum to nurture essential skills such as critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and practical application in real-world scenarios. Beyond his school-based roles, Daniel serves as the Founding CEO of GreenSTEM Education, Tasmania's pioneering charity focused on equitable access to STEM education. Through GreenSTEM, he strives to ensure that all young Australians, particularly those from underrepresented groups, have opportunities to participate in high-quality STEM activities. A central project of GreenSTEM is Greenpower Tasmania, developed in partnership with the UK's Greenpower Education Trust. This innovative initiative involves students designing, building, and racing single-seat electric vehicles, effectively blending practical engineering skills with principles of sustainability. Greenpower Tasmania provides young participants with unique, collaborative experiences, equipping them with valuable STEM skills and inspiring them to become future innovators. Daniel’s contributions to education and community projects highlight his unwavering dedication to enhancing STEM education and fostering enduring opportunities for young Australians in a world increasingly shaped by technology. His impactful work has been nationally recognized, earning him the prestigious 2024 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools. Reach out https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-edwards-155476226/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn about AVISTA - AROSE’s Virtual and In-person STEM Training and Awareness Program, which will visit over 200 high schools across Australia face-to-face as well as digitally through STEM challenges to help students learn more about STEM career pathways into the Australian defence industries. We speak with Holly Kershaw, STEM Program Manager at AROSE to learn more. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About AVISTA Supported by the Department of Defence’s School Pathways Program, AVISTA will deliver a range of exciting learning experiences to students, their teachers and families throughout 2025, to help develop Australia’s STEM talent pipeline by providing direct insights into defence industry career pathways. AVISTA is an initiative of AROSE, delivered in partnership with Fizzics Education, Gilmour Space Technologies, Gunggandji Aerospace, IlluminateFNQ, Joseph Banks Secondary College, Nova Systems, and the University of Western Australia Defence and Security Institute. Learn more https://avista.org.au/ About AROSE Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth (AROSE) is a leading, industry-led, not-for-profit organisation that stands at the forefront of knowledge and technology transfer between Australia’s traditional industry sectors and the burgeoning international space sector. AROSE brings these sectors together to collaborate on targeted, industry-led projects with Australia’s world-leading Remote Operations expertise at their core. Learn more https://www.arose.org.au/ About Holly Kershaw Holly Kershaw is an experienced program leader skilled in strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership. She excels at scaling operations and managing large program transitions under tight deadlines. She has led STEM initiatives engaging up to 300,000 students annually and produced events attracting tens of thousands. Her experience includes roles at AROSE, Arludo, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, Fizzics Education and the University of Sydney. Holly also co-founded TEDxParramatta, emphasizing strategic partnerships and community-focused events. Learn more https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollykershaw/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzy Urbaniak OAM is an educational leader passionate about inspiring students through science and STEM-focused initiatives. As CoRE Lead at the CoRE Learning Foundation, she empowers youth to succeed in tomorrow's world. A former geologist, Suzy has developed acclaimed programs promoting STEAM, geoscience careers, and women in STEM leadership. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Suzy Urbaniak OAM Suzy Urbaniak OAM is a passionate educational innovator dedicated to transforming classrooms through engaging science education. As the CoRE Lead at CoRE Learning Foundation, Suzy drives initiatives supporting young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Transitioning from her original career as a mining industry geologist, Suzy now develops influential STEAM programs, inspiring students toward meaningful careers in science, engineering, and geoscience. Recognised widely as WA’s 2020 Local Hero and serving as an Australia Day Ambassador, Suzy champions lifelong learning, women's leadership in STEM, and global collaboration, all while embracing her love of geology—especially exploring volcanoes! About CoRE Learning Foundation With a 20-year legacy, CoRE has grown from 1 to 21 schools across WA, delivering exceptional hands-on STEM education. Over the past five years, our expansion program has created meaningful opportunities for primary and secondary students, significantly improving their pathways into the resources industry. CoRE is committed to accessibility, diversity, and supporting remote communities, with 150+ alumni now working in the sector. Our innovative programs, including the CoRE Learning Model, Gamifying Earth Science (GES) Learning Initiative, and the Graduate Mentoring Program, help sustain a local STEM talent pipeline. Student journey https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xn88ronk5FE Learn more https://www.corefoundation.com.au/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jonathan Nalder, known as ‘the Edunaut,’ has spent 20+ years pioneering hands-on, problem-based learning with cutting-edge digital tools—STEM, AR/VR, AI, and environmental sensors. Drawing on his Drama Teacher background, he infuses learning with props, role play, and futures thinking. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Jonathan Nalder A globally recognized innovator, Mars Society Ambassador, and World Teacher of the Year, Jonathan Nalder is dedicated to helping educators embrace the future of learning. With expertise in STEM, AR/VR, AI, and environmental sensors, he blends cutting-edge digital tools with futures thinking to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. Bringing his Drama Teaching background into the classroom, Jonathan infuses education with role play, props, and hands-on problem-solving to make learning immersive and engaging. His latest project, First Kids in Space, invites young dreamers to share their visions of space exploration. Learn more at firstkidsinspace.info. Or if you are older and want to relax to stunning air travel or space exploration videos, subscribe at YouTube.com/@lofiairspace Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teaching is complex and comes with complex challenges. Today we speak with Rob McTaggart, highly experienced STEM innovation lead & founder of Slam Education. From challenges in the classroom to navigating huge workloads & stress, we can come together to support each other. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Rob McTaggart With over 15 years at the intersection of education, technology, and innovation, Rob McTaggart is dedicated to transforming learning experiences. A passionate creator, he has developed award-winning platforms, professional learning systems, educational apps, augmented reality experiences, and design challenges that empower educators and engage students. As Innovation Lead for NSW Education and co-host of the Reinvent the Classroom Podcast with HP and Intel, Rob has championed initiatives that reduce administrative burdens for teachers and enhance school operations. His expertise in product design, software development, and educational strategy has driven impactful projects across business, government, and education sectors. Now, as a leader at Slam Education, Rob is committed to making schools more efficient and effective. His mission is clear: to streamline school operations, improve processes, and give teachers the time and tools they need to focus on what matters most—teaching and connecting with students. Through a whole-of-school approach, he ensures that innovative solutions support both educators and learners, driving better outcomes across schools, universities, and government education initiatives. Rob’s work has supported institutions including the NSW Department of Education, RMIT, ACT Government Education and hospital schools, creating lasting change in education. Find out more https://www.linkedin.com/in/robmctaggart/ About Slam Education Slam Education is committed to enhancing school operations, reducing administrative burdens, and fostering lifelong learning. Initially, the organization gained recognition through SLAM Academy, pioneering STEM programs in collaboration with the University of Newcastle, Cisco, and schools in the Hunter Valley. These initiatives provided hands-on STEM experiences for students and professional learning programs for educators. As Slam Education’s impact grew, its directors played key roles in large-scale educational projects. Rob McTaggart contributed to NSW Education’s STEMShare program, designing innovative digital solutions for professional learning, device management, cloud migration, and event coordination. John, as co-leader of the AustSTEM Foundation, developed the Kookaberry board and successfully advocated for greater integration of engineering in the national curriculum. Today, Slam Education focuses on transforming schools into hubs of lifelong learning. By streamlining processes and providing innovative solutions, the organization empowers educators to focus on what matters most—teaching, learning, and improving student outcomes. Find out more https://slameducation.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how gamification can transform your classroom! Join us as we explore proven strategies with Valary Oleinik, a learning experience alchemist who specializes in using games to simplify complex topics, spark curiosity, and keep students engaged. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Valary Oleinik Valary Oleinik is a learning strategist, keynote speaker, and workshop facilitator known for her innovative and engaging approach to education. With a unique blend of creativity, technology, and gameful experiences, she helps individuals and organizations design more effective and memorable learning journeys. Her passion for learning stems from an innate curiosity—one she believes is contagious. Embracing her identity as Valary with a WHY, she inspires others to question traditional methods and explore new possibilities in education. Her expertise lies in translating complex concepts into simple, actionable strategies, making her a sought-after voice in the world of learning and development. Valary serves as the Chair of the Advisory Board for the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), where she contributes to shaping the future of distance education. With over two decades of experience in instructional design, facilitation, and project management, she continues to push the boundaries of engagement, helping educators and learners alike thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. When not crafting dynamic learning experiences, Valary is assisted by her cat and bunny—who may not be great at typing but excel at shredding paper. Find out more https://www.valarywithawhy.com/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How might we help our students that enter out STEM classroom? Often, its not just the content understanding that we need to address. Today we speak with Dr Manoj Krishna, founder of HappierMe, on using emotional intelligence in your classroom. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About HappierMe HappierMe is a unique personal development app offering tools to manage emotions, mental health, stress, and relationships while fostering success and inner peace. By uncovering the power of our own minds, the app addresses global issues like addiction, anxiety, and conflict while promoting compassion and understanding. The apps support you to find the happiness within yourself, and lead a fulfilling life. Find out more https://happierme.app/ About Dr Manoj Krishna Manoj Krishna, former spine surgeon turned personal development innovator, is on a mission to empower teenagers and adults to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. As the founder of the Human Wisdom Project and creator of the HappierMe app, Manoj draws on over two decades of experience, two acclaimed books (Understanding Me Understanding You and Stress Free), and a passion for self-awareness to tackle life’s biggest challenges. Manoj believes that every individual—especially young people—has an innate wisdom waiting to be unlocked. HappierMe provides the tools to harness this potential, transforming lives at scale without reliance on ideology. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

STEM MAD is designed to acknowledge and promote STEM learning initiatives that address real-world problems and demonstrate how students in Catholic schools take action that matters. Student teams are invited to design a product, service or innovation to Make A Difference (MAD) to others or the environment. We talk with Shelley Waldon – Science & STEM Lead, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools who initiated this program in 2018. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About STEM MAD The mission of STEM MAD is clear: What began in 2018 in Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) has now spread across Australian diocese schools. Find out more https://www.cna.catholic.edu.au/stem-mad-national https://sites.google.com/vic.catholic.edu.au/stemmad/home About Shelley Waldon Shelley started her career as a geochemist, working in the mining industry for 4 years with BHP and for the Victorian government as an Environmental Scientist for 6 years. After this she undertook postgraduate teaching qualifications to work in both the primary and secondary sectors. Have worked in Catholic education in Melbourne for 25 years in a variety of roles and educational settings. These include classroom teaching, specialist teaching, curriculum leader and Catholic placed teacher in extension education at Zoos Victoria. Also extended post-graduate learning with a Master of Education, Graduate Certificates in Assessment and STEM Education and additional qualifications in business management, leadership and risk management. Within Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, major responsibilities have been supporting schools and working with teachers to devise and develop resources and professional learning opportunities that enhance science learning across the curriculum. In collaboration with our teachers, cultural organisations and expert providers, we develop learning opportunities and partnerships that improve teachers' core content knowledge in science, whilst developing pedagogical models that improve understanding by enabling the application of scientific conceptual knowledge in the context of multidisciplinary projects. Acted as Primary Investigator for MACS in a 4-year ARC Linkage Research Project (with Monash Uni, BCE, and UQ) researching problem-based learning through STEM education. Using problems as the drivers for student engagement and motivation with the curriculum and exploring teachers' attitudes, beliefs and pedagogical practices as they participated as co-researchers. In 2018 initiated STEM MAD, which has become a flagship program in Melbourne and a national program in dioceses across Australia, and continues to demonstrate scientific learning, where students use STEM projects to Make a Difference (MAD) to others and the environment. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your students can be involved in a mission to space! Hear from Ted Tagami, founder of Magnitude.io, as we talk about a plant growth experiment heading to the International Space Station on the SpaceX-31 resupply mission, where your students can grow the ground trials. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Simple Seeds Partners Magnitude.ioARC Centre of Excellence in Plants for SpaceSARDI: Australian Pastures GenebankAVA Challenge Challenge: Create an environment to grow the healthiest plant from seed. The system you create will be self-contained, with water being added only at the start. Record and compare your results with others around the world including one in microgravity on the ISS over 4 weeks. Register your interest: Click here! About Ted Tagami Having built and sold his first dotcom in the 1990’s, Ted has been building Internet relationships since 1994. With leading work at Knight Ridder Digital and global brand experience at digital agency Millions of Us, Ted brings a unique perspective to modern experiential learning through the implementation of science and engineering based on the Next Generation Science Standards. https://magnitude.io/about_us/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine hosting a running event for over 40,000 athletes and making it sustainable? That's exactly what the TCS Sydney Marathon goIT Challenge was designed to do where students from across NSW were challenged to create innovative solutions for the TCS Sydney Marathon through a design thinking process. We speak with Head of Corporate Social Responsibility – Australia & New Zealand at TCS, Binaisha Daruwalla as well as Nikyetta Pencheff from the STEM Enrichment team of the NSW Department of Education plus Grade 5 students Annabel and Flynn from Lindfield Public School. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About the TCS Sydney Marathon goIT Challenge TCS's Go Innovate Together program (goIT) is TCS's flagship STEM education program. Focusing on digital innovation and career readiness, goIT engages students from diverse backgrounds with Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) subjects and computer science, design thinking and digital innovation. The program offers an industry-developed, customisable curriculum that teaches students the 21st-century skills necessary for a career in technology. Lessons cover topics including design thinking, prototyping, artificial intelligence, machine learning and more. Since the launch of the goIT Monthly Challenge in 2020, thousands of students across the globe have used key principles from goIT to design tech-based solutions and submit pitch videos based on a Monthly Challenge theme. Each month, TCS co-hosts the event with a Sustainable Development Goal ambassador. The Challenge has engaged a growing number of teachers and students every month, exploring topics ranging from gender equality and systemic racism to protecting life underwater. TCS Sydney Marathon goIT Challenge in partnership with the NSW Department of Education aims to create a marathon that will inspire and sustain future generations and set new standards for sustainable responsibility. The TCS Sydney Marathon goIT Challenge ran from 1 August to 31 August 2024. It was open to all students across NSW as well as students from around the world. The goal of the goIT program is the prepare students, traditionally underrepresented in STEM, with the skills, confidence and mindsets necessary to pursue careers of the future. We use a number of formats to give students problem solving and innovation skills such as the design thinking framework in addition to early exposure to varying techonolgies such as web/app design, microprocessors, IOT, and now Cyber Security andGenerative AI. At TCS, the aim with programs like the monthly challenge is to bring awareness to utilizing technology to solve problems in the community provide students with opportunities and tools to which they may have limited or no access to. The TCS Sydney Marathon goIT challenge allowed a unique partnership with NSW Department of Education to expanded our outreach in the region and engage more learners. Learn more https://sydneymarathon.com/tcs-goit-challenge/https://tcsempowers.tcsapps.com/apac/goit-main/monthly-challengehttps://tcsempowers.tcsapps.com/apac/goIT Check out Lindfield Public School's Submission Well done Annabel and Flynn! https://youtu.be/KTEWP8Bqt8c About the NSW Department of Education’s STEM Enrichment Team The NSW Department of Education’s STEM Enrichment Team is dedicated to transforming STEM education by advancing excellence and equity through innovative curriculum and enrichment programs. Building on the foundation of the STEM Industry School Partnerships (SISP) program, we collaborate with esteemed industry and educational partners to create world-class opportunities that inspire all students to develop STEM skills and knowledge. Our commitment to inclusive and innovative STEM education through enriched learning experiences, is to ensure every student has access to transformative STEM experiences that empower them for success in future educational and career pathways. Learn...

Learn about AROSE, the Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth consortium that is not only leading Australia in Remote Operations science, technology and service, on Earth and in Space, but also is providing STEM Education for students across the country as we speak with Michelle Keegan, AROSE Director Resources & Space, Deputy Chair (and founder) Resources Advisory Board. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About AROSE The Australian Remote Operations for Space and Earth consortium (AROSE) is a not-for-profit, industry-led consortium, at the forefront of knowledge and technology transfer between Australia’s traditional industry sectors and the burgeoning international Space sector. AROSE fosters collaboration across industries and academia to place Australia as trusted provider of remote operations in space and on Earth. The AROSE consortium was founded in February 2020, borne from the vision of former astronaut Colonel Pamela Melroy (now Deputy Administrator of NASA) and Head of Intelligent and Autonomous Systems at Woodside, Russell Potapinski. AROSE is headquartered in Perth thanks to the generous support of the Western Australian Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation. The organisation was established to leverage existing remote operations expertise in the Australian resource sector and catalyse knowledge transfer between terrestrial and off-Earth domains for the benefit of all industries. Learn more https://www.arose.org.au/ About Michelle Keegan As the 2023 Australian Space Professional of the Year, Michelle is highly respected in the Australian Space Industry. Wirth a background in mining and remote operations, Michelle has a strong interest in taking what we do well on Earth to Space, optimising and bringing it back to Earth. "If we can shape our next generation mines through a new lens, taken from solving the hardest challenges faced in Space... we can truly accelerate our ambition and solve in a smarter way. Even better if we can help the Space sector solve their challenges by learning from what we do well on Earth. Collaborating across sectors!" Learn more https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-keegan-0468014 Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ocean Lovers Festival is Australia’s largest annual cultural and science celebration for the ocean. Hear from founder Anita Kolni as we discuss the education opportunities available through the pitching contest Fish Tank as well as Litterarty and the Sea Science Student Expo. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About the Ocean Lovers Festival The Ocean Lovers Festival taps into Australians love of their ocean lifestyle with the largest dedicated ocean science and cultural celebration in Australia. Through a festival of Ideas, Art + Music and Actions, the Ocean Lovers Fesitval inspire and engage the community on ocean issues and provide hope by showcasing solutions and innovation that are improving the health of the ocean. The festival has hosted hundreds of expert speakers, artists, innovators, ocean pioneers, and champions. It showcases successful marine projects that restore coastal ecology, highlights ocean- innovating entrepreneurs, and provides a platform for government initiatives, marine scientists, and community groups to inspire and empower audiences to better protect the ocean. https://www.oceanloversfestival.com/ About Anita Kolni Anita Kolni is a passionate changemaker, communicator, and connector. She is the Founder of the Ocean Lovers Festival, an annual celebration of ideas, art, music, and actions showcasing the latest innovations, science, state-of-the-art technology, and cool ideas for helping the ocean. Anita successfully staged the first Ocean Lovers Festival in April 2019 at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach. In a short time, it hasg rown into Australia’s largest annual cultural and science celebration for the ocean, attracting tens of thousands of visitors and achieving a digital media reach of over 34 million. Anita is rapidly gaining recognition as a global connector in the ocean sector for her innovative approach of bringing inspiration and hope for the ocean and engaging audiences to accelerate change that positively impacts our blue planet. She championed the Sydney Coast Hope Spot at the inaugural Ocean Lovers Festival with the support of Mission Blue and the Sylvia Earle Alliance, recognizing Sydney’s cherished coastline on the international stage. Anita's ocean passion stems from her Swedish Olympic sailing father and uncle and her own love of all things beach and ocean. She has worked on major events like the Grand Prix and ATP Tennis Tournament in Europe before settling back in Bondi with her family of four children, inspiring her to create the festival and do her part in protecting the ocean for their future. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Ehab Gerges, a multi-award-winning STEM educator who loves working with his students on sustainability, flight & vehicle challenges and so much more. He shares his ideas for engaging students and how he has built his STEM space in his school. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Ehab Gerges Ehab Gerges is a dedicated educator currently pursuing a Masters of STEM Education at the University of Canberra. With diverse qualifications in Business Management and Electrical Engineering, alongside teaching certifications, he is accredited by the Department of Education to teach Science, Chemistry, and Physics. Ehab's commitment to professional growth is highlighted through achievements like being accredited as a STEM Educational Instructor by STEM.Org USA, becoming a Microsoft Global Certified Educator, and receiving the Toyota Community Trust & Public Education Foundation STEM Teachers Scholarship in 2023. His dynamic career includes roles as STEM Coordinator and Senior Science Teacher at James Cook Boys’ Technology High School, with notable contributions to sustainability projects and STEM conferences. Recognised with the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales “World Teachers’ Recognition Award” in 2020, Ehab embodies excellence in education. Connect with Ehab here Recommended STEM resources STEM Resources on Code.orgNSW Department of Education: iSTEM ResourcesGrok Academy: Coding and STEM EducationFIRST Australia: Robotics & STEM Learninghttps://www.stem.org.uk/resources/elibrary/resource/35888/bridge-buildinghttps://certified.stem.org/users/password/newhttps://www.arduino.cc/https://studio.code.org/teacher_dashboard/sections/5400230https://arcade.makecode.com/https://www.lego.com/en-au/themes/mindstorms/learntoprogramhttps://phet.colorado.edu/sims/cheerpj/ideal-gas/latest/ideal-gas.html?simulation=reversible-reactionshttps://www.minecraft.net/en-ushttps://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Food security - it's important! So is teaching students to be self-sufficient on how to grow their own nutritious food. Today we hang out with Food Ladder's founding CEO Kelly McJannett to learn how Food Ladder is addressing food security in remote and Indigenous communities. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Food Ladder Food Ladder grew from a kernel of an idea by founders Alex Shead and Kelly McJannett. Alex was determined to use business to create social change. As a social change specialist, Kelly saw kids struggling to concentrate in class because they were hungry and understood the macro impact of food security. By joining forces, they found a way to combine agricultural technology and teaching systems to create lasting social change. From the first greenhouse installation, both realised this was a powerful way to reframe food choices for the next generation. About Kelly McJannett Kelly McJannett is founding CEO of award-winning non-profit Food Ladder which addresses food security in remote and Indigenous communities as well as education, health and economic participation with a holistic focus on wellbeing. An experienced leader in multidisciplinary approaches to social change, Kelly has pioneered scalable place-based agritech solutions which address immediate human needs, support environmental outcomes and ready vulnerable communities for worsening conditions resulting from climate change. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Communications (UTS) and an MBA (The University of Sydney Business School) where she was awarded Social Justice and Community Leadership Scholarship. Accolades include Sydney University Dean’s Prize and Leadership Excellence Award as well as named Australia’s 100 most Influential Women by Australian Financial Review. Kelly is a member of the Board of Advice for The University of Sydney Business School. Find out more https://foodladder.org/ Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

West Australian high school payloads to space! Find out about the BinarX Outreach Program which connects West Australian high school students with the Binar Space Program at Curtin University. We catch up with Outreach Program Coordinator Meg Berry and Ahla & Shivani from Bob Hawke College to learn more about the Binar 2-3-4 in early August! Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About the BinarX Outreach Program The BinarX program sees West Australian students design and prototype science payloads for the Binar cubesat, and then build those projects for launch on-orbit with the Binar Space Program at Curtin University. Payload concepts are directed by students and teachers & may include sensors to study earth and space environment, samples for testing in microgravity, or samples for testing in a vacuum. They may also include a software-only payload running on Binar’s flight computer. Students will access their results using amateur band radio, either at Curtin or through other ground stations participating in the open source SatNOGS network. As part of the program, students and teachers will also construct and operate their own SatNOGS ground station to gain a better understanding of radio communications and contribute back to the SatNOGS community. As the program progresses, BinarX will guide teachers and students through obtaining radio licenses and installing amateur radio equipment in their schools. This will allow them to communicate with their satellite payload directly, and connect with the rest of the global amateur satellite community. The program is currently at capacity for the 2024-2026 Student Payload Development Program, but please register your interest for future opportunities with the program! Launch details for Binar 2-3-4! If you’re in Perth, WA, please register to join us at our in-person launch event this weekend! Binar 2-3-4 are scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral, FL on board SpaceX Falcon 9 CRS NG-2 at 23:28PM AWST, so the in-person event may be to watch the livestream of the docking with the International Space Station the afternoon of August 4th, 2024. (but please follow the socials for updates as launch times can change at the last minute!). Anyone, anywhere can watch the livestream of the launch carrying the next 3 cube sats to space! > Space Coast Live: 24/7 Views of NASA, SpaceX Falcon 9 Operations, and Starship Pad Construction - YouTube (for the rocket launch) > NASA Live: Official Stream of NASA TV (youtube.com) (for the docking with the ISS) Find out more https://www.binarspace.com/binarx/ binarspace.com/box binarx@curtin.edu.auBinarX summer holiday program About Meg Berry Meg Berry is the BinarX Outreach Program Coordinator within the Binar Space Program at Curtin University. Within her own community, Meg is actively involved as a coach and judge in FIRST® LEGO® League, which is a LEGO® robotics “co-opertition” that inspires innovation and fosters well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership in students. With a background in graphic design and project management, Meg brings a unique creative angle to the BinarX Outreach Program. Having worked extensively in public artwork and signage manufacturing, she understands the power of visual storytelling in conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences. Her goal is to support the school community—students, teachers, parents, and beyond—on the exciting journey ahead in the realm of space exploration. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast...

Join co-founder John Bertles as we learn how Bash the Trash has been inspiring students about sustainability and STEAM education as they show students how to create music with recycled and recovered objects of all types! Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About Bash the Trash Founded in 1991, Bash the Trash reaches out to students, families and educators throughout the world to bring their message of science-based environmental arts education, working with over 60,000 students a year in live performances and residencies, and more through web-based instruction and interaction. Bash the Trash’s co-director John Bertles provides professional development for educators in arts integration and environmental issues through the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, plus also provides master classes for graduate students in education, as well as internships, apprenticeships and training programs for new teaching artists. 2018 brought both a Drama Desk Award Nomination and a Grammy Nomination!! About John Bertles As an educator Bertles has been a teaching artist, teaching artist mentor, study guide writer, concert narrator/performer, curriculum writer, consultant, and advisory board member. As a composer he works with combinations of traditional and world instruments along with his own invented instrument creations. He has written music ranging from opera to circus tunes, and from symphony to punk rock, and is a five-time recipient of the ASCAP Plus Music Award for Songwriting. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Abdul Rauf, a passionate STEM educator and founder of the Pakistan Science Club. He is on a mission to make people aware of the importance of science and technology, its benefits, and to harness the technical capabilities of Pakistan's youth. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education About the Pakistan Science Club The Pakistan Science Club is a not-for-profit science society established on the 8th of August 2008 by Abdul Rauf. Pakistan Science Club inspires a lifelong interest in science, math, and technology by engaging diverse communities through interactive and innovative programs. It aims to provide a scientific and working environment for the local public (students/hobbyists/researchers etc.) where they will be able to collaborate among themselves and other institutions, exchanging innovative ideas and creative mindsets. The Pakistan Science Club (PKC) searches for science talent all over Pakistan by organizing different science activities i.e. summer science camps, science fairs, and competitions. The purpose is to identify and nurture future scientists, technologists, and IT talent at school, college, or university levels. This also provides opportunities and facilities to science-talented students to utilize their skills to innovate and support their scientific interests in the PKC Research Center About Abdul Rauf Abdul Rauf is the Founder and President of the Pakistan Science Club. He is a science enthusiast and research expert who established a platform to nourish and promote science culture in Pakistan. His aim is to popularise science and technology, to search for science talent and develop research and development strategies. He also encourages students and teachers to pursue science by passion and facilitates their access to science by providing training workshops and sessions to adopt project-based learning and inquiry-based approach. Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world! https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/ Know an educator who'd love this STEM podcast episode? Share it! The FizzicsEd podcast is a member of the Australian Educators Online Network (AEON ) http://www.aeon.net.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.