A team of UNE staff members and student volunteers spent the day at Armidale Secondary College this week, where they opened students’ eyes to the world of science, while equipping them with the skills needed to succeed throughout secondary school and beyond.  

It’s all part of a continuing partnership with the National Indigenous Science Education Program (NISEP), which is aimed at placing Indigenous high school students in leadership roles in order to build the confidence and motivation to finish school and pursue tertiary pathways. 

“Groups of Indigenous student leaders were selected and taught how to conduct a series of experiments, such as making slime and creating invisible ink,” said A/Professor Erica Smith (top right), who leads UNE’s involvement in the program.  

“They were then given the opportunity to demonstrate these activities to groups of Year 7 students, which not only teaches valuable leadership skills, but inspires the younger students to become NISEP leaders in the future. This will hopefully keep them motivated to stay in school, and look into further study and employment in STEM once they graduate.” 

This marks the second year of UNE’s involvement with NISEP, with big plans for the future in the works. 

“We are hoping to grow the program to be able to attend other schools in the New England North West. We also want to eventually have several events each year to help keep the momentum going and inspire more students to become leaders.” 

If you are interested in getting involved in future NISEP events, please get in touch with Erica Smith.