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With 2026 in full swing, we’re inspired by the continued energy and commitment of our teachers and STEM professionals. One of the most rewarding aspects of our work at STEM Professionals in Schools is receiving your activity reports and photos, showcasing the many inspiring ways your partnerships are enhancing student learning. Please keep them coming – not only do they help demonstrate the value and impact of the program, they also provide great inspiration for others across the network.

From 18–24 May, we celebrate National Volunteer Week, and would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks to the more than 900 STEM professionals who generously give their time to inspire the next generation of Australians to explore careers in STEM.

In the spirit of meaningful volunteering, we would also like to highlight opportunities to support schools in remote communities. While remote partnerships may offer fewer opportunities for face‑to‑face interaction, there is something especially rewarding about sharing your expertise where it can have the greatest impact. We invite you to express your interest or share the word with those in your network who may be interested. Finally, if you’re doing exciting work in quantum or other emerging technologies, we’d love to hear from you too via STEMprofessionalsinschools@csiro.au.

Share a note of appreciation

Are you a member of the CSIRO STEM Professionals in Schools LinkedIn group? As we celebrate our wonderful STEM professionals, we’d love you to log in or join the group to share a highlight from your partnership, a quick thank you, or read about some of the activities our STEM Professionals have helped bring to life with their paired teacher.

Insights from our rural and regional partnerships 

A man and woman standing behind a table and smiling into the camera in a classroom setting

At a rural school in Chinchilla, Qld, teacher Rebecca Davis shares how she worked exclusively via Teams with Brisbane-based engineer, Colin Sheldon, to co‑design an entire learning unit together. After months of weekly chats and planning, the pair (left) finally met in person last month to see the students put their ideas to the test.

At Coomandook Area School in South Australia, teacher Lea Brodie and long‑time program volunteer Professor Kim Hemsley have been opening students’ eyes to real‑world science through hands‑on experiences, including sheep brain dissections in the classroom and a planned visit to Kim’s research laboratory. Together, these partnerships show what’s possible when collaboration is shaped around local context, and how ongoing collaboration can have a big impact.

Read the Bringing real‑world STEM to rural and regional classrooms full article.

Aviators in schools 

STEM learning soars through a whole-school approach 

At Findon Primary School, VIC, a whole‑school STEM program is taking flight through Aviators in Schools. Teacher Steevi‑Anne Flack worked alongside aeronautical engineer Joelle Chia (left) to co‑design hands‑on lessons that bring aircraft engineering principles to life. From lava lamps explaining air density to simple experiments demonstrating pressure and lift, the partnership helped students connect STEM learning to real‑world careers.

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National Reconciliation Week 

Cultural Considerations

Our Cultural Considerations course is designed for educators and STEM professionals dedicated to building inclusive, collaborative environments for young people in STEM. By the end of this free 4-module course, you’ll be equipped to shape more inclusive learning spaces and contribute to the growth of a respectful, connected community in STEM. Highly recommended for those working with schools with high Indigenous student enrolment. Interested in partnering with a school with high Indigenous student enrolment? Email STEMprofessionalsinschools@csiro.au to register your interest.

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In case you missed it...

From classroom to coral reef

Students at Kalkie State School had the unique opportunity to visit Lady Musgrave Island with STEM professional Dr Moorhead, where learning extended beyond the classroom and into the reef itself. While snorkelling the lagoon, students observed coral ecosystems and marine life firsthand, deepening understanding of biodiversity and conservation.

Building a future proof skillset

Young people need a diverse skill set to prepare them for jobs that might not yet exist. That’s why 21st century skills - like problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, teamwork and resilience - are more important than ever. Discover five practical tips to help young people build these future‑ready skills through STEM.