It was  all drones, coding and 3D printing at Moranbah East and Moranbah state schools this week when Arrow energy hosts Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) workshops for 40 students and almost 80 teachers. 

The teachers took part in a professional development session on the technologies and learn how they can be used to bring to life science technology engineering and maths (STEM) curriculum. 

This PD included every teacher from both primary schools, which shows the high level of commitment the schools have to shining a light on these technologies.

The virtual workshop also gave teachers a head start on their students to help them use the technologies to improve the businesses processes.  

“The students will work in teams, and success will depend heavily on teamwork, communication and out of the box thinking,” said Moranbah State School’s Technologies Teacher Rebecca Johnston.  

“Each team will present their finding at the conclusion of the day in front of Arrow Energy representatives,” she said.  

“It’s also extremely valuable for students to be able to speak to the Arrow people, who will give them first-hand insight into the range of careers available in the resources sector, and how to get there.”  

“The virtual workshop for teachers will also leave a legacy, with teachers identifying ways to enhance the digital technologies curriculum across various classrooms.” 

The QMEA engages with 80 schools throughout Queensland and is a partnership between the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and the State Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.     

The QRC is Queensland’s peak representative body for coal, metal and gas explorers, producers and suppliers across the resources sector. It contributes one in every five dollars to the Queensland economy, sustains one in six Queensland jobs and supports more than 15,000 businesses and more than 1200 community organisations across the state – all from 0.1 percent of Queensland’s land mass.   

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