Held annually, the John Monash Science School Regional Science Exchange invites Year 10 students from regional Victorian schools with a passion for science to join them for an immersive three-week block. Participating students attend classes with JMSS students, visit Monash University for science workshops, and experience Melbourne, something they may not have had the chance to do previously.
The curriculum at John Monash Science School challenges students to explore cutting-edge scientific knowledge in an engaging teaching and learning environment, including opportunities to participate in emerging science electives developed in partnership with Monash University.
In addition to study-related opportunities, students will also have opportunity to explore Melbourne’s diverse cultural and sporting landscape through curated excursions and guided weekend activities – forming a holistic school/life experience.
The Regional Science Exchange is also designed to give students exposure to the Monash University campus and facilities, helping to prepare for the transition to university and further study at the end of the secondary years of schooling.
Students stay with JMSS families during the duration of their stay, they are allocated a buddy, house and mentor group thus increasing the bond with the school and JMSS students.
The school has found that all students leave JMSS with a fresh approach to their studies, knowing different options within science and maths all while making lifelong friends. The exchange brings the whole school community closer, with the homestays, the teaching staff and the rural families.
Some of the recent Term 2 student reflections were –
Bailey – “It has given me a solid option of being at Monash University for future education and has given me many ideas for career paths.”
Simonette – “I do think it has made me want to push and strive even further into going in the direction of a science-based career. Something that definitely makes me more interested is the medical field.”
Sarsha – “I think it has just enforced that I want to follow the paths I already like and to continue in the science fields I like”. She also mentioned her favourite part of the exchange was “meeting different people and taking classes I wouldn’t normally take”
Jade – “My favourite part was exploring a new school environment and learning about careers and sciences that I never knew existed.”
Matilda – “The teachers are really good and super supportive.”
Monatana – “Meeting new people who are also very passionate about science and staying with an awesome host family were my highlights.”
Eliza – “I wanted to see what Melbourne life was like and to get to know the science electives might be before heading into VCE next year.”
All students are invited back to JMSS in November to present their project at the Australian Science Fair. Students work on their project and findings throughout the year along with their teacher back home. This exchange program is one of the great ways students across Victoria are being supported to develop the skills they need in science subjects to set them up for the jobs of the future.
For any schools or Year 10 students interested in the program please visit here for the application process, dates and details:-
https://www.regionalscienceexchange.com.au/
www.jmss.vic.edu.au
Victoria’s first specialist senior secondary school for science, mathematics and associated technologies, JMSS was formed in 2010 as the result […]