Empowering learners: Science Gallery Melbourne's transdisciplinary and inclusive education programmes

Science Gallery Melbourne collaborates with the Victorian College for the Deaf, the Australian Space Agency and the Parliament of Victoria to foster a transformative and supportive learning journey for students

Several students during Science Gallery Melbourne’s learning programme Mission Control in partnership with the Australian Space Agency and the Parliament of Victoria (2023)

Science Gallery Melbourne fulfilled its mission to lead inclusive STEAM education through two marquee collaborations: the STEM Centre for Excellence and Mission Control. The STEM Centre for Excellence, a collaborative venture between Science Gallery Melbourne, the University of Melbourne and the Government of Victoria, redefines learning for secondary school students.

By focusing on transferable 21st-century skills while blending scientific rigour and artistic exploration, the Centre’s cutting-edge programs help learners access untapped creative opportunities through design thinking.

Our programmes blend together a whole bunch of different subject areas because we know that when
young people go out into the world, they’re not existing in subject silos.
— JESSE CHAMBERS, STEAM EDUCATOR

Mission Control, a programme jointly designed with the Australian Space Agency and the Parliament of Victoria, further demonstrated Science Gallery Melbourne’s capacity for pushing the bounds of inclusive education. By mirroring the parliamentary process, Mission Control invites students and young people to share data and information, debate ideas and find solutions, making democratic decisions through both science and civics.

As advocates of inclusive education, Science Gallery Melbourne has worked in collaboration with the esteemed Victorian College for the Deaf. Over the past two years, this unique partnership has inspired students and teachers to fully embrace STEAM learning through captivating exhibitions, immersive workshops, and unforgettable celebration events. By fostering a dynamic learning environment, they empower learners to explore their potential and excel in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, creating a positive and inclusive learning environment for students.

What is so purposeful about the partnership between our College for the Deaf and the STEM Centre for Excellence is that it’s one of authenticity.
— Marg Top, Principal of the Victorian College for the Deaf

At Science Gallery, we believe that active learning is the key to unlocking the full potential of every student, and we remain committed to providing unwavering support on their educational journey.

If you would like more information about Science Gallery Melbourne’s Learning Programs here. Mission Control is also a digital resource you can deliver in your own classroom, click here to access resources.

Compiled by: Ana Prendes, Science Gallery International, 2024