Our Stories
Recycling plastics in STEM
2 minutes read8 October 2024
If learning about engineering and the practical application of maths doesn't sound like fun, then you haven't been to Kalinda Primary School.
The school's STEM program gives students the opportunity to design and produce their own 3D printed items. The kids are involved at every step, from using 3D modelling software to assembling printed components.
Teacher Paul Todd has made Kalinda Primary School's STEM program as hands-on as possible. 'They like that they’re doing stuff all the time, and they’re enjoying interacting with technology'.
Grade 5 and 6 students have designed superhero toys, complete with capes and emblems that can be projected against a wall. Meanwhile, Grade 3 and 4 students have created ball bearing mazes.
'They had a lot of fun with that, and it's also a mindfulness tool,' said Paul.
'My favourite thing to learn is STEM', said student Jackson.
'Students love being part of STEM. Our approach is very hands-on and looks at how they can come up with solutions to big problems,' said Principal Shaun McClare.
'Students need design and entrepreneurial skills, and STEM provides the opportunity to do that. Taking a sustainable approach sets our kids up for success and enables them to make a real impact on the world.'
Proudly supported by Bank First's Teaching Initiatives Program (TIP), Kalinda Primary School will soon begin to collect plastic from the community to shred and recycle into 3D printing thread.
Through support materials and failed prints, 3D printers generate a significant amount of waste. The school can now recycle this waste back into its STEM program and continue creating 3D-printed items, enabling learning and wellbeing.
This TIP grant means Kalinda Primary School's recycling ambitions will become a reality, and students and the wider community are already on board.
'It’s important to help protect our planet against so much rubbish', said student Abby.
For more than 31 years, Bank First’s TIP Program has championed innovative school programs with grassroots funding. We’re proud to have funded projects that add significant value to a school’s community.