AustSTEM Foundation

The AustSTEM Foundation is a not-for-profit charity established in Australia in 2017, dedicated to promoting education with a strong focus on the Natural Environment and fostering increased awareness and competence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The foundation operates with the belief that a solid grounding in these areas is essential for students to thrive in a rapidly changing world, and it places particular emphasis on integrating environmental awareness with STEM learning.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the AustSTEM Foundation is to ensure that all Australian students, especially those in Years 5–8, develop a robust foundation in STEM and environmental literacy. The vision is to create a future where young Australians are equipped with the skills and curiosity to address real-world challenges, particularly those related to sustainability and the natural world. The foundation is committed to raising engineering awareness and STEM literacy in classrooms across the country, recognising that engineering acts as the conductor in the STEM orchestra, bringing together diverse disciplines to solve complex problems.

Main Objectives

• Facilitate the delivery of innovative education platforms and professional training to Australian schools, supporting teachers, students, parents, and guardians.
• Ensure students finish school with a strong foundation in the Natural Environment, STEM, and related practical skills.
• Foster effective partnerships with tertiary education institutions, businesses, and industry to bridge the gap between education and real-world application.
• Prioritise support for rural and remote schools, helping to reduce educational disparities and inspire students to pursue engineering and STEM careers.

Benefiting Groups

The AustSTEM Foundation primarily serves primary and secondary school students, with a special focus on those in the middle years of schooling. It also provides resources and professional development for teachers, ensuring they are equipped to deliver engaging, hands-on STEM education. Additionally, the foundation supports parents and guardians by offering accessible tools and information to encourage STEM learning at home. The broader community, including industry and tertiary partners, benefits from a pipeline of skilled, environmentally aware graduates.

Types of Services and Activities

• Digital Learning Hub: An online platform hosting tutorials, projects, and lesson plans that integrate experiential, technology-based learning with the Australian curriculum.
• Kookaberry Platform: A pocket-sized, Australian-designed microcomputer that enables students to transition from block-based to text-based coding, with hands-on activities connected to nature and science.
• Professional Development: Training programmes for teachers, including face-to-face and online sessions, to build confidence in delivering digital technologies and STEM content.
• Classroom Kits: Provision of Kookaberry kits and accessories to schools, enabling whole-class participation in STEM projects.
• Curriculum Support: Resources that enhance existing lesson plans, with a focus on sustainability, climate change, agriculture, water cycles, and Earth monitoring.
• Community and Industry Engagement: Collaboration with organisations such as the Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and Engineers Australia to promote engineering education and address barriers in the education pipeline.

Through these initiatives, the AustSTEM Foundation aims to inspire a new generation of Australians to engage with STEM, appreciate the natural environment, and develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed for the challenges of the 21st century.