Background

Historically, Peel has high levels of social disadvantage. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the region struggles with lower than national average rates of educational attainment and higher than average levels of unemployment.

In response, RDA Peel consulted with a wide cross section of stakeholders to determine if a STEM hub was a suitable mechanism to help address capability-related labour market challenges. An immersive program was designed to empower Peel’s emerging workforce to be more adaptable, resilient, entrepreneurial and future-thinking while exploring STEM themes.

Peel Bright Minds aims to peak curiosity in the region’s youth, by creating opportunities to talk, think and learn more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). With a focus on accessibility, all activities are free, interactive and delivered in local communities.

Established in 2018, Peel Bright Minds targets 13–17 year-olds wanting to discover more about the fascinating world of STEM, learn new skills and meet like-minded people.

An integral part of Peel Bright Minds is the Trail Blazers initiative, which delivers a 6-month mentorship program promoting STEM pathways and building leadership capacity to address the region’s current and future labour market shortages.

Objectives

Trail Blazer’s three key objectives are to:

• Empower young aspiring STEM professionals with the life skills needed to thrive in a dynamic work environment.
• Connect young people with the possibilities of STEM and the career pathways available to them.
• Remove barriers for regional young people aspiring to a career in the STEM industries, particularly those from marginalised or disadvantaged backgrounds.

In 2022, 70 young people, across 2 intakes, completed the 6-day residential camp. Of these, 68 undertook the 6-month mentorship to acquire the critical skills needed to thrive and succeed in the future workforce.

In 2023, 36 completed the camp with 34 undertaking the mentorship part of this year’s program. 

Trail Blazers was a finalist in the 2022 Premier’s Science Awards – Chevron Science Engagement Initiative of the Year. At these annual awards, Trail Blazers was recognised for its outstanding contribution to community awareness, interest and/or participation in science in Western Australia.

The Trail Blazers Impact Report (January 2022 – June 2023) revealed the majority of participants (79%) reported an increase in self-esteem, with 79 per cent indicating they will pursue a career in STEM.

A fifth and final intake for Peel Bright Minds Trail Blazers is planned for January 2024.

• Watch: Trail Blazers
• Read: WA Premier’s Science Awards

Published 1/1/2024