PrimeSCI! Summer School Holiday Science Workshops | Hawthorn

Investigate different pond water samples to identify freshwater invertebrates. Discuss the needs of animals that live in freshwater habitats as you learn about living and non-living factors that influence life in our local waterways. 

(Foundation – Year 4)

A classic Ralph Sinclair science workshop, including the hair-raising Van de Graaff generator. Observe miniature lightning and discuss storm safety, experiment with attraction caused by static electricity, and learn more about the structure of atoms and movement of electrons.

NOTE - some participants will be given the opportunity to put their hands on the Van de Graaff generator (parental permission forms will be sent out in the week before the event). 

(Year 5 - 8)

Digital technology can be used to alert us to natural disasters like earthquakes and heatwaves. Use Micro:bit minicomputers to monitor and transmit information about destructive forces of nature, as simulated in our classroom. Note – we are not expecting real earthquakes, but no promises about the temperature (after all, it is Melbourne!).

(Year 5 - 8)

Work with our little orange Edison robots as they complete infrared marvels, obstacle adventures and light-chasing fun. No robotics experience necessary. 

(Foundation – Year 2)

Family AstroTours presented by astronomers from the Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing. Wearing 3D glasses, investigate Earth’s day, night and seasons, before heading out to explore the other planets of our Solar System! Family AstroTour sessions are open to anyone age 7+.

(Age 7+)

Escape from our hot summer with some cool science, as you experiment with hot and cold, movement of heat, winter weather and shake up your own ice cream in this tasty workshop. Perfect for a hot summer day!

Please note – children will have the opportunity to eat milk, sugar and vanilla essence.

(Foundation – Year 4)

Mammal or bird? What do crabs and spiders have in common? Use our collection of animal artefacts to learn more about how biologists classify animals to understand and find out more about them. Make your own fish print to take home!

(Foundation – Year 2)

These rocks aren't just pretty. From gems over 100,000 years old, to crystals growing out of chaos before you, we'll learn all about their inner chemistry and the life changing Synchrotron science unlocking their secrets.

(Year 5 – 8)

Ever wondered what Southern Boobook and Barn Owls eat? Learn more about owl biology, dissect an owl pellet and identify the bones inside to find out what was eaten by the owls from Leigh Valley Hawk & Owl Sanctuary. 

(Years 5- 8)