Discovery: STEM to the Rescue

Year Level:	Year 9 / Year 10 / Year 11 / Year 12
Industry Focus:	Careers and STEM Skills
Technologies used:	CoSpaces / Makeblock/XTool Laser Cutter / Microbit Controllers / TELLO EDU Drones
Max Students:	30
Duration:	One Week
Booking Eligibility:	Open only to KIOSC partner schools

Introduction

In partnership with Youth HQ: Home – YouthHQ To participate in this program, students need to apply through the Youth HQ portal. The Defence Work Experience Program provides young Australians interested in Defence as a future career, the opportunity to sample life in Defence and learn more about the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Australian Public Service (APS). For queries about the Defence Work Experience Program please email Defence.WorkExperienceProgram@defence.gov.au For more information on the Defence Work Experience Program and how to apply, click here. The KIOSC “STEM to the Rescue” program is a limited-enrollment, cohort-based initiative offered on a biannual or annual schedule. Participation is contingent upon a competitive application process, wherein candidate submissions are exclusively received and adjudicated through Youth HQ. Keep an eye out for upcoming dates!

STEM to the Rescue: Disaster Relief!

Are you ready to become a STEM specialist on a critical mission? Working in teams, up with 3-4 classmates, students put their STEM skills to the test in a simulated natural disaster rescue mission. Imagine this: a remote island has been devastated by a cyclone, communication is down, and they desperately need supplies! As a STEM Mission Specialist, you will be tasked with designing and delivering essential aid using cutting-edge technology.

Your Mission:

Over the course of a week at KIOSC and visits to Defence Bases and related STEM industries in Melbourne, students will unpack and upskill to complete the mission brief.

Code the Communication Lifeline: Learn how to program tiny computers to transmit and receive vital messages between the island and rescue command.
Map the Scene: Build a 360° replica model of the island, analysing the terrain and identifying the perfect landing spot for your drone delivery.
Prototype the Perfect Delivery: Design and build a lightweight, durable box to attach to your drone.
Drone Flight: Learn how to program drones to navigate the challenging island terrain and deliver their essential payload.
Challenge Showdown: On the last day, teams will take part in a Challenge Showdown putting all their learned skills to the test.

Program Goal: To increase student awareness and interest in pursuing STEM-related careers in the Department of Defence and related industries, such as VR and Drones. Watch the March 2025 Video to see the student experiences and/or check out past programs in KIOSC News

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