Tuesday 15 January 2013

Science programs encourage budding scientists

There are two Rotary supported Science programmes for secondary school pupils. These are:

Rotary National Science and Technology Forum is for Year 12 students with as passion for science and technology and is held at the beginning of their year 13 school year (ie 2 full weeks live in AU's O'Rorke Hall during January) 



This fully residential programme is conducted by Rotary and the Tertiary Institutions of Auckland. By the end of the Forum students should have a better understanding of the tertiary courses they wish to follow and a fuller appreciation of the place of science and technology in the wider community. It also provides an opportunity for high achieving students to spent time with similar minded people and the experiences gained invariably result in overall personal growth and renewed motivation to succeed.

Opening session, January 2013
Each District has been allocated 25 places at the Forum. All Secondary Schools and Clubs in the District will be sent copies of the application forms and guidelines.  The application process is highly competitive (reflecting it value and popularity)  and all applications from students MUST be lodged with Rotary Clubs, who will interview & endorse them before forwarding to the District Coordinator who will then make the final District selections.

At BOTH Club and District level, selection is based on positive personal qualities and proven scholastic achievement. Successful students should be advised by the District Coordinator by end September. Selected applicants have the opportunity to win a place at either the Canberra (1 per District) or the London International Youth Science Forum (2 Forum places).


For contacts go to the District Rotary National Science and Technology Forum Committee in the appropriate district.

Sci-tech Experience for Year 11 students and NCEA Level 1 of any science discipline with some interest in science as a career.
This is held over three days in first week of July school holidays and operates only in the 9910 and 9920 districts, effectively the greater Auckland area, with some North Auckland schools' participation. It is a day attendance programme coordinated from AUT with programme participation from Unitech and MIT (Manukau).
2013 dates: 16, 17 and 18 July 2013
The aims of the programme are:

1. To increase the awareness of, and develop enthusiasm for the "sciences” and their applications.

2. To understand that the sciences are crucial contributors to contemporary life.

3. To encourage a continuing commitment to further study which could lead to related employment.
Numbers are restricted to 200 and it is common to have more applicants than places. There is an initial allocation maximum of 10 students per school, with any remaining places by selection.
Fee $95 (covers meals and bus transport) - sponsorship may be available.
Sci-Tech is managed by a Trust comprised of Rotary Districts 9910 and 9920 together with representatives from the participating tertiary institutions.
Programme details and application: www.sci-tech.org.nz