9:00am: Opening Address
Professor Nathan Hart, Prof. Comparative Neurophysiology, Macquarie University
Comparative Neurophysiology and Enriching educators’ Understanding of Scientific Inquiry.
9:15am: STANSW Distinguished Service Awards
9:30am: Keynote
Dr Phoebe Meagher, Wildlife Conservation Officer, Taronga Zoo
Igniting Impact: Building Diverse Scientific Skills and Inspiring Future Scientists
10:00am: Networking and Exhibitor Session
10:30am: Morning Tea
View the full primary or secondary program below by selecting the tabs
11:00am: Workshop Block One
15-minute Round-Robin Workshops, including all the below:
Mini Terrariums
Presenter: Annie Martin, PLC Sydney
Discover how mini terrariums can be used to teach students about Earth’s components and the water cycle in a hands-on, accessible way. This session focuses on using safe, classroom-friendly materials such as sphagnum moss instead of potting mix. Participants will explore how this activity can support science learning and promote sustainability discussions. The workshop offers a simple yet powerful model for inquiry-based teaching in primary settings.
Making Observations in Primary Science
Presenter: Lesley Gough, Western Sydney University
This workshop focuses on helping students develop sensory observation skills through hands-on investigations. Aligned with ES1 and S1 outcomes, participants will explore various tools that support scientific observation. Teachers will gain ideas for implementing activities that develop vocabulary, curiosity, and inquiry. The session emphasises inclusive and engaging strategies for early science learning.
Isolating Variables and Fair Testing
Presenter: Ben Newsome, Science Educator & Author
Participants will engage in hands-on experiments that explore heat transfer and air pressure using materials easily found in schools. The session covers how to identify and isolate variables, while addressing common misconceptions. Teachers will discuss ways to align experiments with syllabus outcomes and embed them into teaching sequences. Strategies for supporting student understanding through guided inquiry and reflection will also be shared.
12:10pm: Lunch
1:15pm: Workshop Block Two
15-minute Round-Robin Workshops, including all the below:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Content in Science
Presenter: Grace McIntosh, NSW Department of Education
This workshop provides guidance on embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in the Science curriculum with cultural integrity. Participants will explore how to incorporate Working Scientifically skills alongside authentic cultural knowledge. Strategies will include resource selection, developing content progressions, and fostering local community partnerships. Teachers will leave with practical approaches to design inclusive, respectful, and inquiry-rich learning experiences.
Body Systems in Action: Hands-On Learning for Stage 3
Presenter: Susanne Williams, Newington College
Bring human biology to life through interactive, curriculum-aligned activities designed for Stage 3. Participants will model body systems, measure physiological changes during exercise, and explore system interdependence through real data. The session includes a design challenge encouraging students to invent a “Survival Superhuman” suited to extreme environments. Attendees will receive four ready-to-implement lessons that promote inquiry, data collection, and collaborative learning.
The Sky is the Window to Our Universe
Presenter: Fiona Grant, Central Coast Grammar School
Explore celestial phenomena through engaging, hands-on activities tailored for primary students. Participants will investigate the sun, moon, stars, and Milky Way, developing key scientific skills such as observation, data recording, and representation. This session invites teachers to nurture student curiosity and wonder about the universe. Emphasis is placed on linking astronomical inquiry to everyday classroom contexts.
2:30pm: Workshop Block Three
15-minute Round-Robin Workshops, including all the below:
Embedding Aboriginal Perspectives in STEM
Presenter: Destiny Paris, CSIRO
This workshop explores how educators can respectfully integrate Indigenous STEM knowledge into primary science classrooms. Participants will try hands-on, inquiry-based activities co-developed with Aboriginal communities and gain insight into the Deadly in Generation STEM initiative. The session will highlight how to build local partnerships and embed cultural safety into classroom practice. Teachers will leave with practical strategies, classroom-ready resources, and renewed confidence to foster culturally responsive STEM learning.
Backyard Science
Presenter: Dr Kira Westaway, Macquarie University
Discover how everyday materials can be used to teach complex science concepts in fun, engaging ways. From Mentos-and-Coke reactions to balloon inflation and homemade lava lamps, participants will explore the science behind acids, bases, gases, and pH. The session also includes data collection activities using DIY catapults, and investigations into non-Newtonian fluids through slime-making. Teachers will leave with a suite of activities that encourage curiosity, inquiry, and creativity—all achievable with minimal equipment.
Data Detectives: Engaging Students with Data Logging and AI
Presenter: Ian Fairhurst
Learn how to empower primary students to become data scientists using simple logging tools and beginner-friendly AI platforms. This fast-paced, hands-on session explores how students can collect and interpret data to solve real-world problems. Participants will trial AI-assisted coding tools, review classroom-ready examples, and explore how to align data literacy activities with the NSW Technologies syllabus. A curated list of tools and resources will be provided to help bring these practices to life in the classroom.
3:45pm: Afternoon Plenary Panel Discussion: New Science Curriculum Skills Continuum
Panelists: Shirley Casper (NESA), Josh Botto (Cranbrook School), Margaret Shepherd (ASTA), Sham Nair (NSWDoE), Anne Forbes (MQU)
11:00am: Workshop Block One
1a) Incorporating Aboriginal Scientific Perspectives
Presenter: Nick Tsoukatos, Cranbrook School
This session explores how Aboriginal scientific knowledge can enrich the science curriculum for non-Indigenous students. Attendees will learn to integrate these perspectives respectfully and authentically, fostering engagement, critical thinking, and cross-cultural understanding. The workshop provides strategies to address challenges like limited resources or training. Participants will leave with practical tools and a clearer vision for inclusive teaching.
1b) Making Data Matter in Science 7–10
Presenter: Chris Bormann & Sham Nair, NSW Department of Education
Explore how data science can be embedded into 7–10 Science through hands-on activities and practical lesson sequences. Participants will experience methods to collect, interpret, and analyse live data in the classroom. The session includes strategies to develop students’ data literacy and problem-solving skills. It’s ideal for teachers aiming to make scientific data more meaningful and relevant to their students.
1c) Microbiology in the 7–10 Classroom
Presenter: Lewanna Kenton & Tina Linaris, NSW DoE
This session introduces practical microbiology activities suitable for use in Years 7–10. Teachers will learn how to safely incorporate investigations like testing antiseptics and observing bacterial growth. The content links directly to Department of Education curriculum resources. Participants will walk away with confidence in facilitating microbiology investigations that meet syllabus expectations.
1d) Explicit Teaching in Science
Presenter: Ben Surwarld & Craig Cantor, NSW DoE
Learn how to apply explicit teaching strategies to support students’ development of scientific knowledge and skills. The session focuses on when and why to use explicit instruction and how it aligns with the 7–10 Science syllabus. Participants will explore the benefits of breaking down complex ideas and modelling thinking processes. The workshop will also offer examples of scaffolding and guided practice for science concepts.
1e) 50°C: Climate, Heat & Resilience
Presenter: Sophie Poisel, Powerhouse Museum
This interdisciplinary session equips teachers to engage students with climate change through real-world data and local investigations. Participants will explore thermal photography, microclimate studies, communication strategies, and student-led projects. Developed in partnership with the NSW Office of the Chief Scientist, the program fosters student resilience and scientific thinking. Teachers will gain resources and skills to integrate climate inquiry into their classrooms.
12:10pm: Lunch
1:15pm: Workshop Block Two
2a) Hands-On with Indigenous Science
Presenter: Prof. Joanne Jamie & Renee Cawthorne, Macquarie University
This immersive workshop offers three interactive activities focused on Indigenous tools, medicinal plants, and natural dyes. Participants will rotate through stations led by cultural educators and scientists, aligning with key outcomes in the NSW Chemistry and Biology syllabuses. The session supports respectful inclusion of Indigenous science through practical, inquiry-based experiences. Educators will leave with strategies to adapt and integrate these perspectives into their teaching context.
2b) Real Observing, Real Data – CSIRO’s Parkes Radio Telescope
Presenter: Robert Hollow, CSIRO
Experience remote access to Murriyang, the Parkes Radio Telescope, and guide your students in real-time data collection and analysis. This session introduces the PULSE@Parkes program, where teachers can log in, control telescope functions, and interpret pulsar data. Educators will learn to facilitate hands-on investigations using current astronomical data. The workshop provides a unique opportunity to connect students with authentic space science.
2c) Phenomenal Physics: Fun, Focused, and Fantastic
Presenter: Jeffrey Keck, Modern Teaching Aids
Make physics approachable and exciting through simple, engaging experiments aligned with Years 7-10 curriculum. Teachers will design and test energy-efficient houses, simulate motion with rollercoasters, and explore forces with slingshots and catapults. The workshop showcases low-prep, high-impact activities that make physics concepts tangible. Educators will leave with fresh ideas and classroom-ready resources.
2d) Planning and Conducting Safe Practical Investigations
Presenter: Maninda Kaur, NSW Department of Education
This workshop strengthens teachers’ confidence in leading scientific investigations while maintaining safety and student engagement. Participants will reflect on planning processes, risk assessments, and strategies for developing inquiry skills. Collaborative activities will highlight how to embed Working Scientifically outcomes within practical lessons. Attendees will gain tools to facilitate meaningful, compliant, and dynamic science investigations.
2e) What Drives Earth’s Climate?
Presenter: Dr Kira Westaway, Macquarie University
Dive into Earth’s orbital parameters and explore how they shape long-term climate patterns. Using interactive tools such as AR, VR, and physical models, teachers will guide students through concepts like eccentricity, obliquity, and precession. Participants will engage in simulations, use Merge Cubes, and “play god” in a climate-altering game. The session equips educators to lead rich discussions on climate change and Earth’s uniqueness in the solar system.
2f) Falling for Forces: Investigations with everyday materials:
Presenter: Shelley Wilson, Questacon
Explore the principles of force and motion using common classroom materials in this dynamic, hands-on session. Teachers will work through student-style investigations, predict outcomes, test variables, and use thinking routines to analyse results. The workshop links directly to the K–6 and 7-10 syllabuses and demonstrates how simple setups can deepen scientific understanding. Participants will receive templates, guides, and practical ideas for building inquiry and STEM design tasks.
2:30pm: Workshop Block Three
3a) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Content in Science
Presenter: Grace McIntosh, NSW Department of Education
This session supports teachers in planning and delivering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content with cultural authenticity across stages. Participants will explore how to integrate these perspectives alongside Working Scientifically skills and develop a progression of learning from Early Stage 1 to Stage 6. Strategies for community consultation and shared resource planning will be discussed. Educators will leave with a framework for respectful and meaningful curriculum integration.
3b) The Zoo of Poo – Using Bioinformatics in Real-World Investigations
Presenter: Jessica Menendez, Sydney Zoo & Belinda Chapman, Quantal Bio Science
Introduce your students to bioinformatics through this hands-on session featuring a free, user-friendly platform. Participants will explore the “Zoo of Poo” program, where students analyse gut microbiomes of zoo animals using real data. The workshop demonstrates how bioinformatics can be used across science topics to promote digital literacy and inquiry. Teachers will gain skills and tools to confidently embed data science into diverse classroom contexts.
3c) Environmental & Zoo Education Centres (EZEC) – Fieldwork Learning
Presenter: Matt McKenzie, Glen Halliday & Jelena Giles
This collaborative session highlights how EECs can support curriculum-based fieldwork with immersive, hands-on investigations. Participants will rotate through three mini-workshops: citizen science animal data collection, urban energy and sustainability programs, and freshwater ecosystem investigations. Each component provides examples of depth studies and real-time data analysis linked to syllabus outcomes. Teachers will leave with fresh ideas, fieldwork templates, and options for partnering with EECs across NSW.
3d) Brain-Based Middle Years Science Learning
Presenter: Michelle Kueh, Britannica Education
Discover how neuroscience can inform teaching strategies that support stronger learning outcomes in Years 5–8 science. This session introduces techniques like spaced repetition, reflection, and cognitive chunking, which improve knowledge retention. Participants will explore digital tools and lesson ideas that align with how students process and recall scientific content. Practical examples from Britannica Science will demonstrate how to apply these insights directly to the classroom.
3e) Making Good Places
Presenter: Dr Jenny Newell, Australian Museum
Explore how students can contribute to climate solutions by reimagining the spaces where they live, learn, and play. In this creative, hands-on session, participants will design their own sustainable landscapes while learning how to guide students in systems thinking and environmental action. The workshop draws on real-world climate challenges and encourages hopeful, action-based learning. Supported by the Climate Solutions Centre at the Australian Museum, this session blends art, science, and civic engagement.
3.45pm: Afternoon Plenary Panel Discussion: New Science Curriculum Skills Continuum
Panelists: Shirley Casper (NESA), Josh Botto (Cranbrook School), Margaret Shepherd (ASTA), Sham Nair (NSWDoE), Anne Forbes (MQU)