Students from regional and remote areas of New South Wales will soon have the opportunity to participate in a groundbreaking immersive STEM program at the newly opened Powerhouse Museum in Parramatta. The Lang Walker Academy, set to launch on November 7, offers a three-day, two-night residential experience designed to engage students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on workshops, behind-the-scenes access, and collaborative problem-solving activities.
About 15 students from Menindee Central School, located nearly 1000 kilometers away, are among the first to attend the program in term four of the school year. Executive principal Fiona Kelly emphasized the importance of providing equal opportunities to students in remote Aboriginal communities. She noted that the program helps participants build confidence, foster teamwork, and develop resilience while inspiring new career aspirations and pathways.
The academy is supported by a $20 million investment from the Walker Family Foundation and has been developed in partnership with the NSW Department of Education’s STEM Enrichment team. It is expected to serve more than 10,000 students annually from greater western Sydney as well as regional and remote areas. Curated learning resources and ongoing challenges will ensure that engagement continues beyond the students’ stay.
Students will not only explore exhibitions, such as Overflow, Task Eternal, and The Mall, but also take part in activities involving experimentation and iteration to develop critical thinking skills. Additional features accessible during the program include the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden and research-grade telescopes on the museum’s rooftop, allowing for an enriched educational experience.
Educators from various rural schools have praised the program for expanding access to world-class STEM education. Matt Quirk, principal of Portland Central School, highlighted how the academy broadens students’ horizons beyond typical rural learning environments, while Ian Preston, deputy principal of Griffith High School, underscored the value of the residential component in fostering independence and a sense of belonging within the broader STEM community.
NSW Department of Education secretary Murat Dizdar expressed pride in the collaboration, stressing that the initiative offers public school students the chance to explore new ideas, tackle real-world problems, and build the confidence needed for future careers.
Powerhouse CEO Lisa Havilah described the academy as a transformative experience for young people, particularly in recognizing the importance of engaging remote students in leading cultural and educational spaces. Year 9 student Erin Hindmarsh and Year 10 student Matilda Tang, among those attending, are eager to experience the museum’s technology and interactive displays while gaining knowledge they can share with peers back home.
Overall, the Lang Walker Academy aims to inspire the next generation of innovators across NSW by providing an immersive STEM education experience that transcends geographical barriers and encourages lifelong learning.