The YWCA Canberra Clubhouse is an innovative, creative, out-of-school learning space where young people from undeserved communities can work with adult mentors to develop new skills, explore their own ideas, and build confidence in themselves in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).

We know that it isn’t always possible for young people to visit the Clubhouse which is why it’s important for us to create opportunities to bring the Clubhouse to them!

On Thursday 28 June, we hosted a STEAM Speed Learning Day at the ACT Education Centre for Innovation and Learning. For this we transported seven engaging activities from the Clubhouse for a day of innovation, learning, and fun. Over 90 students from the Caroline Chisholm Senior Campus participated, each were introduced to the various activities, and were given the opportunity to learn about, and participate in all activities. 

The activities available were: 

• block code or draw your way through a maze with a Sphero SPRK+
• code your robot to battle your friend with Lego Mindstorms
• practice using different Photography techniques 
• mix tracks with the Synthesizer that matches different pictures 
• jam your own rhythm with Djembe Drumming 
• build a transformer, spacecraft, or roller-coaster with Lego 
• transport in time with the help of the Green Screen. 

The students showed amazing imagination and innovation by adding to and adapting the activities to make them more challenging. One group of students brought out some cardboard boxes and made a ramp obstacle for the Sphero SPRK+ to go over. Another group found a boxed maze and used that to code the Sphero SPRK+ through. When using the green screen, one group of enthusiastic students found some green paper and used it to camouflage each other, creating a floating head effect! Developing skills in creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking is a priority for us, so it was great to see the students practicing those skills. 

The day was also assisted by Clubhouse leaders. These leaders were stationed at different activities and were taught the logistics of each. With this expertise, the leaders helped guide the other students through the activity, troubleshoot issues, and answer questions. The leadership shown by this group allowed for a smooth day with each leader being enthusiastically helpful. We couldn’t have done it without them. 

At the Clubhouse, we value connecting with the community and allowing as many young people as possible the opportunity to explore all that the Clubhouse offers. The Clubhouse Coordinator is now communicating with other local schools to offer more days like this where young people can be inspired, engage with the resources and equipment, and learn more about the program. 

If you would like to arrange a similar event for your school, visit the Clubhouse, or learn more about the program, please get in contact with the Clubhouse Coordinator, annielea.rowley@ywca-canberra.org.au. 

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