Science is thriving at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, with students not only excelling in their classrooms but stepping confidently onto national and international stages.
From coming up with innovative experiments, to progressing to the final round of the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC), or presenting their research at universities and conferences, students from across computing, physics, astronomy and biomedical research have shown how deeply curiosity and innovation are woven into the fabric of learning at the School.
“At St Andrew’s Cathedral School we know that the conditions that teachers create is essential,” said Ms Melinda Mestre, Head of Science at the School. “The exciting journeys of our students reflect a pedagogical approach that cultivates a sense of wonder as well as a resilience that drives discovery. Our approach to science education equips students to question, explore and understand the world, and to make evidence-based decisions. Ultimately it gives them the confidence to tackle global challenges, fostering creativity and innovation that are transferable to many fields,” said Ms Mestre.
The depth of talent among the teaching staff creates an inspiring atmosphere for students. Adding to this, the School’s Scientist in Residence, Dr Andrew McGonigle – a leading volcanologist who has previously worked with NASA – further enriches the learning environment.
When their sense of agency is strengthened, students are able to apply their knowledge and develop their problem-solving skills, testing ideas with creativity. Year 12 IB Physics student Owen D. has recreated experiments originally performed by NASA in expensive wind tunnel facilities, with little more than a hair dryer, a force sensor and some 3D-printed nose cones. Owen’s results matched NASA’s findings almost exactly, despite the far lower speeds and cost of his set-up.
“It’s remarkable, that with a bit of initiative and 3D printing, we can mimic, in a school setting, the outcomes from experiments NASA have performed in multi-million-dollar wind tunnel facilities,” said Dr Andrew McGonigle. “To see a student produce results that align so closely with these outcomes shows just how far our students are stretching their scientific capabilities with real experimental ingenuity.”
The same spirit of innovation is evident in computing. In mid-September Year 12 student Arabella S. showcased her Raspberry Pi Bird project at the PyConAU Python Developer’s Conference in Melbourne. Selected as one of only seven high school students across the nation, Arabella’s presentation was streamed to developers and computing educators across Australia.
Fellow Year 12 student Amelia W. was invited to present her HSC Science Extension research at the [EX]plore Science Extension Conference at Macquarie University. Her presentation was awarded third place for best use of statistics, recognition that underlined the calibre of her work.
Achievement has also come on the global stage. Year 11 IB students Oliver P., Yuze D. and Martin N. took part in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC), a demanding contest that challenges students to engage with real research and advanced astrophysical reasoning. All three students earned outstanding results: Yuze received a Gold Award (placing in the top 2% across all stages and top 8% in the final round), along with the National Award for the highest score nationwide. Oliver and Martin each earned Silver Awards, ranking in the top 10% overall and the top 40% in the final round.
Taken together, these stories suggest more than just a string of successes. They reveal a culture where students are trusted to ask complex questions, to engage with material well beyond the curriculum and to test themselves against the standards of professional scientists. Their work is being recognised for its depth and originality – and in the process, they are redefining what it means to be a high school scientist.
Come and find out more about the outstanding opportunities offered at St Andrew’s Cathedral School by joining our next Head of School Tour on Tuesday,18 November, 9am – 10.30am.
To book your place visit: www.sacs.nsw.edu.au/HOS-18Nov
Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, St Andrew’s Cathedral School is an innovative, co-educational day school, providing students from […]