Science and Engineering Challenge

The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide STEM program founded by the University of Newcastle and run in partnership with Rotary Clubs and Deakin University where teams of year 9 & 10 students compete in activities involving the principles of science, engineering, and technology (STEM).

Students participate in an exhilarating day competing against other schools in fun and engaging hands-on activities including:

• designing an earthquake-proof tower
• building a bridge
• providing electricity to a city
• and mastering the art of indigenous fish traps.

Up to eight schools can compete on a challenge day, each school submitting a team of between 16 and 32 students. Points are awarded based on performance and the school with the highest score at the end of the day is the winner. Qualifying schools may go on to compete at a state final, and eight winning schools from around Australia are invited to compete at a 1-day national final each year.

Geelong
Dates: 18 - 19 June 2025
Location: Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus
Capacity: Minimum of 16 students and a maximum of 32 students per secondary school (capped at eight schools per day)
Year level: Year 9 and 10

Melbourne
Dates: 24 - 25 June 2025
Location: Melbourne Burwood Campus
Capacity: Minimum of 16 students and a maximum of 32 students per secondary school (capped at eight schools per day)
Year level: Year 9 and 10

Applications

Applications for the 2025 Science and Engineering Challenge will open in March.

For more info about our programs and activities, contact our Outreach team.