Over the Summer School Holiday break, seventeen curious and eager students from Sunshine Coast Grammar School embarked on an opportunity of a lifetime, partnering with Actura and travelling to the United States to participate in Space Camp.
Students from Year 7-9 spent a week in Huntsville, Alabama at the US Rocket and Space Centre and another week based in Houston, Texas. In an engaging hands-on adventure, students learnt about the development of space-related technology and were lead through several simulated missions where they worked together to overcome challenges and adversities.
The program integrated elements of space science, medical science, biological science, and energy to foster student interest in STEAM through experiential learning and included site tours of America’s leading Space Centres where students actively took part in training exercises, simulations and lectures.
Students had the chance to unleash their passion through immersive and exciting astronaut training. This unique and energetic experience enabled students to extend their curiosity and embrace the STEAM field with a new found enthusiasm.
Built on the foundation of the Seven Survival Skills, the Space School program offered three key pillars of activities including enriched space and earth science activities, inspiring leadership development, and engaging personal development. Students had the opportunity to work in small groups to collaborate, trial newly developed skills, take a leadership role within these teams, meet astronauts and space engineers as well as hear some engaging and motivating talks by world-class presenters. In addition, students participated in hands-on lab sessions including dissecting, building energy systems and learning about biology relevant to space travel.
Returning from the expedition, students were certainly more focused and more inquisitive to pursue the subjects they are interested in.