Community & Business
24 July, 2024
Young bright spark takes on STEM camp
THE engineering world awaits Grade 12 Mareeba State High School student Sophie Trimble, who has returned to her studies after participating in the Spark Engineering Camp over the school holidays.
Sophie decided to spend the July school holidays in Brisbane, alongside several other students from “non-traditional backgrounds” at the fully funded camp, learning about career paths in STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
After finding out about the camp from her science teacher Mr Richardson, she knew she had to apply.
The students conducted experiments and learned many new things, which not only helped them gain a better understanding of STEM but also helped other students in developing countries.
“Every day was jampacked with activity, some to do with engineering, some with building and others just getting to know the people you were around,” she said.
“We visited GHD, an engineering company. I build water filtration systems, prosthetic legs, and robotic cars. I also built a solar light that was sent to a third-world country to help the less fortunate.
“It was amazing to think that the thing I built was going to help someone with their learning.
“While at Spark, I also climbed the storey bridge. It was an amazing experience, even though it was terrifying.
“All the people at Spark, from the staff to the students, were lovely, and it was such an enjoyable time.”
Out of all the activities Sophie participated in, the scavenger hunt was her favourite, running around the St Lucia campus and solving tricky puzzles.
“The scavenger hunt on the last was cool as we got to walk around campus finding things. The scavenger hunt allowed me to see all the Saint Lucia University of Queensland campus,” she said.
“On the last night at camp all the staff and student participated in a talent show and then a disco. The night was lots of fun full of laughter and getting to know everyone there.”
Now back at school, Sophie will complete the last two terms of Grade 12 before pursuing her university studies.
Students interested in Spark can apply at www.ywb.com.au/spark-engineering-camp
