The Ministry of Inspiration brings science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects to life for primary and intermediate students through hands-on learning. The NZAquabots and Launch into Coding programmes are helping engage students across The West in fun and impactful STEM opportunities.
Jessica Cathro, the Managing Director of the Ministry of Inspiration (MOI) North Island, explains further: ‘We help students discover their talents in STEM, explore career opportunities, and build confidence in their abilities.’ Furthermore, the charitable trust also provides teachers and schools with comprehensive support to help build capacity to continue STEM opportunities independently.
NZAquabots is New Zealand’s first underwater robotics programme for kids. Teams participate in regional competitions, design and build their own robots, and then dive into exciting, Kiwi-themed challenges. Along the way, students learn engineering, problem-solving, teamwork, and science communication. They also explore design thinking, marine engineering, electrical concepts, tool safety and much more. Best of all, they have a whole lot of fun along the way. The Launch into Coding programme gives tamariki an introduction to how code is written, breaking it down into easily digestible chunks. And the MOI is about to launch an exciting new initiative in West Auckland.
The Robocup Jr Theatre programme gives students opportunities to write a story, design and build costumes and sets, and then program robots to act out their story. Jessica says it complements literacy and numeracy, offering new, innovative ways for students to apply their learning. The MOI provides these programmes to participating schools free of charge and can even supply loan robots to help get things started. And thanks to funding of $20,000 from the Your West Support Fund, more young Westies can get involved and boost their STEM skills. Several schools have already signed up, and Jessica and the team are actively recruiting more. ‘With this funding, we can reduce barriers to participation, enabling more schools to experience the benefits,’ declares Jessica. She adds that the support enables MOI to inspire more members of the next generation of innovators and problem solvers through STEM education.
Follow the MOI on Facebook or visit their website for more information about these fantastic programmes.
