SUSAN CLOSE MP
DEPUTY PREMIER
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE AND SPACE INDUSTRIES

Students from across the state will come together in Adelaide today for the 2023 Kids in Space program at Lot Fourteen.

Run by Andy Thomas Space Foundation and Australian Space Agency, the national program is a space-themed, technology-based, design thinking project delivered by education technology company, Makers Empire.

Schools involved in the showcase are Willunga Primary School, Saint Ignatius College, Swallowcliffe School, Dara School, Klemzig Primary School, Warooka Primary School, Mundulla Primary School and Walford Anglican School for Girls.

More than 5000 students across Australia are involved in the space education program this year, which includes participating schools receiving space-themed professional development days for teachers, a 3D printer and a custom space-themed challenge course for students.

The South Australian event will involve around 70 primary school students from eight schools that will present their innovations and designs to judges at today’s event and tour the Australian Space Discovery Centre (ASDC) to experience the excitement of space with their peers.

Today’s winning school will be presented their award by Deputy Premier Close and secure a spot to compete for the national crown against other state winners at the final showcase event being held in Adelaide in late October.

Quote attributable to Susan Close

It’s fantastic to see initiatives such as Kids in Space capture the interest of students and spark a curiosity in STEM-related study and careers from a young age.

The Malinauskas government is committed to growing the skilled workforce we need to meet future industry needs and this engaging program supports teachers and schools to improve STEM learning outcomes by helping students find inspiration in space as a pathway to a future STEM career.

Home to the Australian Space Agency, Australian Mission Control Centre and more than 100 space-related organisations, South Australia has become a beacon for space activity offering a range of exciting career opportunities for aspiring space leaders.

We look forward to welcoming students across the country to the Kids in Space national showcase in Adelaide later this year, to experience this first-hand.