Rosary Primary School in Watson has unveiled a creative design hub called ‘The Makerspace Invention Lab’, where students can develop their critical thinking skills to turn 2D ideas into 3D inventions during class projects and lunchtime clubs.

The introduction of Makerspace supports a school-wide focus on incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) into everyday learning. STEM has been integrated into classroom lessons, video game challenges and a MathsBURST program for Years 4-6.

Makerspace provides an additional channel for student centred learning and risk taking in an imaginative environment where they are inspired to design and create using a variety of resources and materials. Students are able to visualise, invent and build with purpose.

The school launched Makerspace with the announcement of the school’s participation in The Global Cardboard Challenge, inspired by a 9-year-old boy who built his own elaborate DIY arcade completely out of cardboard, that then went viral.

The Global Cardboard Challenge aims to get children to use creativity and problem solving to complete their game. It requires the use of many skills such as ingenuity, resourcefulness, perseverance, collaboration, teamwork and critical thinking.

Year 4 Classroom teacher and STEM Contact, Kath Watson, said that student engagement has been high in the Makerspace due to its self-directed learning and range of activities that cater to all abilities.

“My class always want to know when are we coming back before we have even finished each session in the Makerspace,” she said.

“We intend to have a game day where each child in the Cardboard Challenge can bring a friend to try out their arcade game once all are completed.”