From space to sea

Students from a Waikiki school have taken out a prize for their research project designed to boost the local population of little penguins.

Charthouse Primary School was among the schools that competed in the WA Kids in Space 2024 showcase, taking out the peer prize. 

The students’ project involved using space technology to help save little penguins on Penguin Island.  

They developed a data collection system that locates penguins and collects information about their habitats.  

The Kids in Space program is an annual initiative that engages students in exciting, space-themed STEM learning. 

Run by Makers Empire, the Australian Space Agency and the Andy Thomas Space Foundation, it teaches students about innovation, teamwork, and problem solving, while also providing insight to space careers and Australia’s role in the space industry. 

Charthouse Primary School technology specialist Suzanne Cairns said the winning students felt proud of their achievement. 

“They felt that all of their hard work had paid off, and that they achieved what they wanted, because they spent so much time and effort on their presentation,” she said. 

“All the students agreed that they had a valuable and excellent experience working on the project, and they think project-based inquiry is an excellent way to learn. 

“Being involved in these kinds of initiatives is very important for students. They were incredibly engaged and motivated, and were excited, not just to work on their project, but to solve the problem that we initially posed. 

“The students challenged themselves, and accepted feedback and challenges from the teachers, to refine and improve their ideas.  

“Project-based initiatives are important to develop student learning so that they can become problem solvers and critical thinkers.” 

Andy Thomas Space Foundation executive director Peter Nikoloff said almost 700 schools across the country applied for the Kids in Space program. 

“We’re excited to continue encouraging more Australian students and teachers to develop an interest in space, so more students are motivated to consider a career in space,” he said.