Published on: 18 May 2023





Our Year 9 and 10 boys recently attended the Perth Science and Engineering Challenge 2023 at Claremont Showgrounds. They spent the day working in teams, competing against various Perth schools, including Guildford Grammar and Kelmscott Senior School.

The Science and Engineering Challenge, an initiative by the University of Newcastle, is an exciting and educational event that aims to inspire and engage students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The challenge takes place across Australia and provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a competitive and hands-on environment.

The challenge features a series of practical activities designed to test students’ problem-solving abilities, creativity, and teamwork. These activities are centred around real-world engineering and scientific problems, requiring students to think critically and develop innovative solutions. Some of the most exciting activities this year included building prototype mars rovers, earthquake-proof structures, and autonomous gliders.

The event culminated with a bridge building finale, called the ‘Bridge Buster test’ and this was the activity where the Christ Church team really shone through and proved too strong for opposition. The students involved had to build a bridge out of basic arts and crafts materials, such as wood, string, paperclips, cardboard, and masking tape. The students’ final bridge design weighed a grand total of 90g, but despite its low weight, it was able to almost hold the maximum weight of 9kg. You can watch a video of the test here.

Christ Church students finished on the highest points total for the day, with a score of 1338.54 out of a possible 1600. This score puts the students at second in the state – a fantastic achievement. The boys should all be incredibly proud of their efforts.