Christ Church Grammar crowned science and engineering champions

1/02/07
Claremont's Christ Church Grammar School has taken top honours in Western Australia's first Science and Engineering Challenge.
More than 45 WA schools and 1,200 students took part in the 2006 challenge, a competition designed to test students' minds and expand their career options in science and engineering.
The challenge is run by Engineers Australia, in conjunction with the Department of Industry and Resources, the University of Newcastle and the Commonwealth Department of Education, Science and Training.
Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan said the challenge worked to inspire students to think about careers in the science and engineering fields.
"There has been a significant decline in the participation rate of science and engineering courses at a tertiary level and this could cause major skill shortages in these sectors in the future," Mr Logan said.
"Science and engineering play a vital role in WA's development and this competition challenges students to think carefully about pursuing careers in these exciting and challenging fields.
"The State Government recognises the important role of science and has committed $72million to ensure science and technology industries are sustainable sectors of the economy, beyond the current resources boom."
As part of the five-day challenge, which was held in November, students were involved in a variety of science and engineering projects designed to encourage them to analyse, plan and work towards a successful outcome.
Projects included the construction of ships, bridges, vehicles and aeroplanes.
"Students were encouraged to use innovative thinking to work through problems," the Minister said.
"Along the way, the students learnt valuable team-building skills that will follow them through the next few years of their education and their eventual career.
"This is the first year the challenge has been conducted in WA and I am thrilled at the level of enthusiasm shown by students all over the State.
"I congratulate Christ Church Grammar school students on winning the 2006 competition and I encourage them to stick with science."
Minister's office - 9222 8950