Students from across the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited (DOBCEL) will gather tomorrow at the Damascus Events Centre, Damascus College, to share innovative STEM projects designed to make a difference in the world.
The showcase is the culmination of the STEM MAD (Making A Difference) Collaborative Innovation Research Prototype (CIRP), a DOBCEL Strategy 2035 initiative that brings together schools, students and educators to explore authentic learning through collaboration, inquiry and innovation.
The project has seen students from Emmaus Catholic Primary School and St Columba's Primary School work together to identify real-world challenges and design STEM-based solutions informed by Catholic Social Teaching. Through science, technology, engineering and mathematics, students have explored how their learning can contribute to the common good, care for creation and the wellbeing of their communities.
Following a STEM MAD kick-off event held earlier this year, students have spent months researching, designing, testing and refining their ideas. Their work will now be presented to fellow students, educators, family members and visitors from across the Diocese during this special showcase event.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore student projects, speak directly with students about their design thinking and problem-solving processes, and experience student-centred, inquiry-based learning in action. Schools interested in STEM learning, student agency and innovative educational practice are warmly encouraged to attend. Parents, families and community members are also invited to celebrate the creativity, collaboration and ingenuity demonstrated by students.
Special Guest Presenters
The showcase will feature presentations from leading voices in education, innovation and technology, providing students and guests with valuable insights into contemporary learning and future-focused thinking.
Professor Pasi Sahlberg
An internationally respected educator, author and researcher, Professor Pasi Sahlberg is recognised globally for his work in educational leadership, equity, innovation and school improvement. Currently Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Melbourne, Pasi has advised governments, educators and school systems around the world on improving learning outcomes and student wellbeing. He has been working with DOBCEL since 2023 and has had a significant involvement on our long-term strategy.
Professor Sahlberg will be a special guest at the showcase, sharing insights with students and visitors and presenting the DOBCEL Award, which recognises projects that most strongly reflect the pursuit of fullness of life through meaningful learning and positive impact.
Additional presentations will be delivered by representatives from Apple Education, Ballarat Tech School and other education and innovation partners.
Time Activity
10am Welcome and Introduction
10.15am Keynote Presentations – Video: Our Journey
10.45am Student Showcase 1
11.30am Lunch Break
12.15pm Student Showcase 2
1.00pm Awards Ceremony/Close
Strategy 2035 in action
Through this CIRP, DOBCEL Strategy 2035 is being brought to life through authentic collaboration, local innovation and meaningful student learning. The STEM MAD CIRP demonstrates how schools can work together to prototype new approaches that are responsive to their context and connected to the shared mission of Catholic education.
Media invitation: The media is invited to attend our STEM Mad event at Damascus College between 10:30am and 11:30am.