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STATE SHOWCASE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION |
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Maroochydore High's ground breaking work in bringing Biotechnology into the classroom has been rewarded with a State Showcase Award for Excellence in Innovation.
Maroochydore High was the first school anywhere in the world to clone plant genes in the classroom and the school was recognized for the highly innovative work that has been done in taking very complex scientific procedures and translating them into experiments that students can do successfully in a school Science laboratory. We are sharing our pioneering work with other schools through the development of a DVD and website materials with Education Queensland's eLearning Branch.
Students from Year 9 to 12 currently have the opportunity to study Biotechnology in their Science subjects and in 2009 students in the Year 8 Challenge Academic Excellence class will also have the opportunity to engage in some study of Biotechnology. |
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The school has worked closely with the University of the Sunshine Coast and the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries in the development of the program. This innovative program has contributed to an increase in interest in the Sciences, an increase in the numbers of students selecting Science as a subject and an increase in the number of Year 12 graduates selecting a science or technology course at university.
Biotechnology is a science for the future. At Maroochydore High, we're leading the way in developing interest and career paths in a field that will become increasingly important as the world faces challenges such as climate change and increasing population.
The state Showcase Awards for Excellence in Education were presented at a gala ceremony on 5 th September at the Brisbane Convention Centre attended by over 800 people including the Minister for Education, Training and The Arts Mr Rod Welford and the Director-General for Education, Training and The Arts Ms Rachel Hunter. |
