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Students from Good Shepherd Catholic College are discovering the power of fundamental physics today at a workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC)

Thanks to support from Glencore Queensland Metals, about 30 Year 7 students will harness the strength of mentorship from industry professionals as they propel their professional skills forward.

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity, Ms Katrina-Lee Jones said hands-on resources industry contextualised activities have joined forces with the National Science Curriculum to deliver an unforgettable learning experience.

“Pulleys for Productivity is an innovative program that showcases how simple physics principles are applied to solve real-world challenges, making otherwise difficult tasks an easy feat,” Ms Jones said.

“Acknowledging the vital role of physics in shaping the world is a fantastic way to showcase how classroom learning is preparing the students for life after school, and it cleverly demonstrates how the resources sector uses engineering innovation every day.”

Glencore Mount Isa Mines Manager, Human Resources and Training, Ms Fiona Pascoe said its partnership with the QMEA supports regional skills development and shows local students the many exciting science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) careers on offer in the sector.

“In the same way our mine sites use cranes and machinery to move large equipment and tonnes of overburden, the students today are learning how a little bit of leverage and a lot of ingenuity can make things safer and more efficient,” Ms Pascoe said.

“We hope today’s workshop will not only inspire these bright young minds to continue their STEM studies, but also ignite a passion for a rewarding career at Glencore’s Mount Isa Mines.”

Good Shepherd Catholic College Principal, Mrs Kathleen McCarthy praised the workshop as a unique educational experience that cleverly complements the science curriculum.

“As educators, we’re passionate about offering innovative STEM lessons that help our students make personal connections with real-world scenarios while giving them a little change from their traditional classroom structure,” Mrs McCarthy said.

“Today is a fantastic opportunity for them to bolster their tangible professional skills as well as their valuable life skills like teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving.”

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools initiative, the QMEA seeks to broaden student and teacher knowledge of career opportunities in resources.

The academy encourages a talent pipeline of employees into vocational and professional careers, with a focus on female and Indigenous participation. The QMEA currently engages with over 90 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.