Australia’s Chief Scientist has published a media release welcoming the adoption of the National STEM School Education Strategy on Friday.

The media release can be read below or downloaded as a pdf.

Making STEM a priority in schools

The adoption by the Australian Government and all states and territories of a National STEM School Education Strategy, has been welcomed by Australia’s Chief Scientist.

Professor Ian Chubb AC said the endorsement last Friday by the Education Council was an important step towards improving science, mathematics, engineering and technology (STEM) skills for all students.

“We now have pathway to a future where every Australian student will have improved STEM skills and the opportunity to pursue them at a challenging level,” Professor Chubb said.

“This strategy will prepare school students in the best way possible for a world of rapid-technological change where innovation and creativity will be the keys to the future.”

The strategy aims to better coordinate and target efforts to improve STEM education in all jurisdictions and drew on recommendations from the Chief Scientist’s report STEM: Australia’s Future.

“I support all elements of this comprehensive strategy – which includes five areas of national action and seven guiding principles,” Professor Chubb said.

“In particular, I support the call to increase STEM teaching quality by lifting the standard of STEM content in initial teacher education as well as improving pathways and in-service support for teachers.

“Confident, well-prepared STEM teachers are the ones who can inspire students and sustain their natural curiosity in the world around them.

“Principals must lead by example in making STEM teaching a priority in schools and ensuring there is first-class professional development available.

“This is a great start and I congratulate all involved in this far-reaching strategy.”

The strategy is available at the Education Council website.

Media enquiries: 0410 029 407 or clinton.porteous@chiefscientist.gov.au