Applications are open for female professionals working in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) who are interested in becoming a coach for the Curious Minds program.
Curious Minds is a mentoring program for girls in years 9 and 10 who would like to explore a career in STEM. Student places in the program are prioritised for those from regional and remote locations, First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those from low socio-economic backgrounds.
The program aims to encourage and empower more girls and young women to aspire to a career in STEM which can involve anything from science, space exploration and robotics engineering to vaccine research, marine biology, cybersecurity analysis or even food science.
What a coaching role involves
Curious Minds needs enthusiastic women to become coaches to help empower girls to excel in STEM.
If you’re a female professional working in a STEM field and would like to coach high-performing girls in years 9 and 10 to explore their potential in STEM studies and careers, Curious Minds would love to hear from you.
Coaches will mentor students and provide a critically important first-hand perspective on the exciting and diverse opportunities available in STEM disciplines.
The program comprises of two four-day camps – a virtual camp in December and face-to-face sessions in July 2024. During this time, students and coaches take part in group activities and workshops. In a fun and supportive environment, girls grow in confidence and ability, expand their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and build their scientific networks.
STEM coaches will:
- connect with one or two female students based on a compatible STEM area of interest
- have regular contact with their student/s over the course of the six months to help them build their skills and confidence in a STEM area
- work on a project together, which will be presented by the student/s at the face-to-face camp
- discuss study options and career pathways, and inspire young girls to pursue further studies and a career in STEM.
Not only will you be inspiring potential STEM professionals, you’ll also develop valuable teaching and coaching skills and create new networks with other women within the STEM industry.
More information
Applications close on Friday 29 September 2023. Please note, coaching is a volunteer role.
Find out more and apply as a coach on the Curious Minds website.
Program applications are still open for students however places are limited due to strong interest.