OREANDA-NEWS. August 07, 2015. More than 3500 students from 21 schools in the Upper Hunter will participate in an interactive programme exploring science, maths and real technology.

The University of Newcastle’s SMART programme kicked off in Muswellbrook and will travel to schools across the Upper Hunter thanks to Coal & Allied.

The programme presents interactive science shows to inspire, inform and involve primary school students in science.

Coal & Allied Community Relations manager Elizabeth Yeo said “The programme brings science, maths and technology into the classrooms of Upper Hunter schools so students can experience the wonders of science from a young age.

“For Coal & Allied, the SMART programme is well worthwhile. It reinforces the important place science has in our education system and continues to demonstrate the role it plays in industries across the Upper Hunter.

“We continue to see the broader community benefits of our 14 year partnership with the University of Newcastle, with the SMART programme presenting science in a way that speaks to all ages and levels of education.

“Undergraduate university students are employed and trained to present the science shows, which in itself gives our future scientists, engineers, managers and educators the chance to develop communication skills in their specialities.”

The programme will tour schools for four weeks, primarily presenting a show exploring the properties of light.

University of Newcastle SMART team leader Sarah Pilgrim said “We are really excited to be offering the Laser Light show this year to celebrate 2015 as the International Year of Light.

“The show explores the electromagnetic spectrum and the colours that make up white light. Our presenters provide interactive demonstrations to help students develop an understanding of reflection, absorption, transmission and scattering. Students also learn about the unique properties of lasers and experience a sound-activated laser show.

“We have just started our tour of the Upper Hunter and so far the comments from teachers have been hugely positive. The schools are very grateful to have extracurricular events such as SMART offered to their schools free-of-charge. This is particularly true for smaller, more remote schools.

“The University of Newcastle has a proud tradition in delivering the SMART programme since 1997 and it is thanks to companies like Coal & Allied that we can reach regional schools across New South Wales and Australia.”

The programme will run from 20 July to 14 August with the following schools:

  • Muswellbrook Public School
  • Muswellbrook South Public School
  • Muswellbrook Christian School
  • St James Primary School
  • Scone Primary School
  • St Mary’s Primary School
  • Aberdeen Public School
  • Singleton Public School
  • King Street Public School
  • Singleton Heights Public School
  • St Joseph’s Denman
  • Denman Public School
  • Martindale Public School
  • Broke Public School
  • Milbrodale Public School
  • Jerry’s Plains Public School
  • Murrurundi Public School
  • Ellerston Public School
  • Belltrees Public School
  • Blandford Public School
  • Sandy Hollow Public School