Brisbane children as young as six got a first-hand look at QUT’s science labs during the school holidays – and insights into atomic theory – thanks to a new partnership between the university’s Faculty of Science and the Atomic School.
The Queensland education company runs school holiday and after-school workshops for kids aged four to 12, and held its very first laboratory-based workshop at QUT on September 29.
A group of enthusiastic six to 12-year-olds got to check out one of the Q Block laboratories at Gardens Point campus and take part in experiments.
Atomic School founder Ian Stuart taught chemistry in Queensland schools for more than 30 years.
“I started out as a secondary school teacher, but about 10 years ago I realised kids as young as four can start to understand the basics of atomic theory – as long as it’s taught to them the right way,” he said.
“At the QUT workshop, the kids did hands-on activities including demonstrations with liquid nitrogen, handling, ordering and observing the differences between various chemical elements, and testing electrical conductivity of metals, semi-metals and non-metals.
“I wanted to become involved with QUT because of its high reputation. Parents who value advanced education for their children recognise QUT as a prestigious venue.”
QUT’s Executive Dean of Science, Professor Troy Farrell, said the university had signed an MOU with the Atomic School to continue hosting holiday workshops for primary school students.
“We understand the importance of helping spark and develop that love of science in children at a very young age,” he said.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for these kids to see a university campus, experience being inside a lab, and learn some basics about atomic science.”
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