About the Department

Inspiring the next generation of mathematicians and scientists

News bulletin: 27 August 2009

The new Energising Science and Mathematics Education strategy will invigorate science and maths education in Victoria.

Launching the strategy at Williamstown High School on Friday 21 August, Education Minister Bronwyn Pike said the strategy will match students with high-calibre teachers to help them excel in maths and science and inspire them towards specialist careers in these fields.

Funding will also be used to recruit talented graduates and teachers to begin teaching maths and science in Victorian schools next year and to stimulate partnerships between schools and industry. Rural and disadvantaged students will also benefit with funding put towards providing greater access to specialist science centres and programs.

The strategy will provide $90 million dollars in funding towards a range of initiatives including:

  • specialist science centres
  • professional learning opportunities for maths and science teachers
  • specialist maths and science coaches
  • summer school for high-performing teachers
  • science and maths awards
  • scholarships recognising best practice schools.

Ms Pike commended Williamstown High School on its Marine Science program, which sets a great example on how to engage students in science in an innovative and interactive way.

The program involves students in a range of activities that teach the principles of sustainability and environmental awareness. Marine Science has been integrated into the middle year’s curriculum, at Years 7 and 8, and students are involved in a range of marine based projects, such as crab surveys, water quality testing and reef surveys.

Through the program, the school’s goal is to stimulate new approaches to environmental education and inspire students and the community to conserve marine ecosystems.

For more information on the new strategy, see: Energising Science and Mathematics Education 

For more information on Williamstown High’s marine science program, see: Williamstown High School