IPSWICH schools are leading the way in delivering innovative STEM programs that are inspiring students and opening doors to future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
From coding competitions to renewable energy projects, local schools are giving students the chance to explore cutting-edge technologies and develop problem-solving skills that will prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.
Queensland teachers are celebrating the success of the Engaging Science Grants program as the State Government announces a fresh round of funding during National Science Week.
The program provides up to $25,000 per project to promote STEM careers, improve science literacy and encourage hands-on participation in science activities.
Local teachers say the program is already transforming classrooms and communities.
A Department of Education spokesperson said the Australian Curriculum sets out the essential knowledge, understanding and skills students need to learn, and that STEM was showing benefits across year levels.
Ipswich schools are excelling in STEM education.
Bellbird Park, Bundamba and Ripley Valley State Secondary Colleges are participating in the STEM Girl Power initiative – a program that includes a dedicated camp, workshops, role model connections and leadership opportunities as regional STEM ambassadors for Year 10 girls.
Bundamba State Secondary College is part of the Gateway to Industry Schools project for the hydrogen industry and the Renewable Energy Gateway to Industry Schools project.
In 2025, a student from Ripley Valley State Secondary College won received an Outstanding Senior STEM Student Award at the Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education, while in 2024, students from Ripley Valley State Secondary College and St Peters Lutheran College, Springfield were category winners in
the Premier’s Coding Challenge.
While welcoming the grants, local MPs said more support was needed for teachers.
“STEM opens doors for our Ipswich students to get the jobs of the future – from clean energy to medical breakthroughs,” State Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said.
“But teachers can’t deliver that future if they’re expected to do more with less. Without fair pay and proper support from the LNP, classrooms suffer and students miss out.”
State Member for Ipswich West Wendy Bourne echoed these concerns.
“Our future depends on inspiring the next generation to take up STEM, to work in the industries that’ll give them a good job and drive our economy. But you can’t spark curiosity in classrooms when teachers are undervalued and overworked,” she said.
Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the grants were designed to connect Queenslanders with science in meaningful ways.
“Queensland is home to a world-class STEM sector, an amazing environment and iconic tourism offering.”
