GEMS
In line with our aim of increasing awareness of and preparation for the wide range of future careers in the fields of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), an innovative elective subject is now offered at Year 10 at St Peter’s Girls. GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Mathematics and Science) is a course that combines the learning of relevant concepts in Science and Mathematics with skills in Design Technology, Digital Technologies and the Engineering Design Process.
Despite the program being in its infancy, Saints Girls have already achieved much success. In 2016, a team of our students won the inaugural Subs in Schools National engineering challenge; in 2017, another group of our girls claimed the State title and were crowned National runners up for designing, building and marketing a fully-functional submarine. Accolades flowed again in 2018, with two teams named State Champions in Spatial Design and Large ROV (remotely operated underwater vehicle).
Other STEM students have dominated the Next Tech Girl Superhero competition, placing first nationally in the Secondary schools' division in 2017 for developing an app that connects retired people with volunteering opportunities. In 2018, our teams took out the State Primary and Secondary divisions, as well as a National STEM award.
We also continue to perform at an exceptional level in SA's annual Science and Engineering Challenge, with our girls consistently challenging their thinking to achieve results.
Our multifaceted approach has seen more of our graduates selecting STEM fields such as engineering for their university studies to pursue the careers of tomorrow.