As part of National Science Week 2024, Belridge Secondary College (BSC) invited schools within the Joondalup Learning Community (JLC) to compete in a JLC Science Week Challenge. The challenge was designed around the 2024 National Science Week theme of Species Survival: More than just sustainability.

The challenge had 3 categories for entry: 

• Year 4 – to test whether camouflage impacts a species survival.
• Year 5 – to design a bird feeder to attract an endangered species.
• Year 6 – to design an inclusive and sustainable zoo.

The Year 4 students were taken through the scientific process and investigated how animals use specific behavioral adaptations, specifically camouflage, to protect themselves from predators and increase their chances of survival. The Year 5 students were taken through the STEM process and designed and built a bird feeder which would attract an endangered species, specifically the Black Cockatoo back into our backyard. The Year 6 students were taken through the STEM process and researched, designed and built a zoo that was both sustainable and inclusive.

The most creative and unique scientific/STEM groups from each year level were invited to present and pitch their designs to a group of ‘shark tank’ experts at BSC. The following students proudly represented Joondalup Primary School and presented their projects:

• Year 4: Phoenix K, Byron S, Rachael G, Phoebe C
• Year 5: Ruth D, Zoey P, Havana J, Makynlee C
• Year 6: Stanley H, Marley W, Daniel T, Charlie K, Erin, Flynn R

After presenting their designs and having the opportunity to explore the designs completed by other students in the JLC network, the winning design from each year level was chosen.

The following students were awarded medals and prizes:

Year 4

• 1^st place: Rachael G, Phoebe C
• 3^rd place: Phoenix K, Byron S

Year 5  

• 1st place: Ruth D, Havana J, Zoey P, Makynlee C

Year 6

• 2^nd place: Charlie K, Erin A, Flynn R

Not only did Joondalup Primary School place exceptionally well in the individual group categories, the school was awarded the coveted JLC science trophy for 2024, which means JPS are now back to back winners!

A very big thank you to all students who were invited to attend the excursion, each student upholding our school PBS values as they respectfully and responsibly represented the school, and shining bright when it comes to ‘we do our best’.

I would also like to acknowledge the commitment and flexibility of staff throughout this process. It has been a task heavy and time demanding challenge and Mr Cutler, Mrs D’Uva, Mrs Butler and Mr Brooke have been an integral part of helping to bring this all together.

Mrs Phillips 

Science Teacher