STEM EDGE is an exciting initiative designed to inspire girls and gender-diverse students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
About the program
STEM EDGE is promoting, building and advocating for Excellence in Diversity through Gender Equity. The program will offer camps, hands-on experiences, and mentor opportunities to ignite passion, build confidence, and equip students with the skills and knowledge for a successful career in STEM.
Starting in year 7 and following students through to their VCE, we aim to build a community of like-minded students. This supportive environment will enhance their development, boost their self-esteem, and create valuable connections.
STEM EDGE prioritises increasing access to STEM opportunities for students who are underrepresented in STEM or may face barriers to participation, including regional and low-ICSEA schools, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students with disability, and other underrepresented groups.
This program is free to participating Victorian schools, and the University can provide financial support where required to assist students or schools to participate in the program.
Schools interested in participating can contact the STEM EDGE Coordinator for more information. We also encourage teachers to subscribe to the quarterly STEM for Schools newsletter where these opportunities are announced.
STEM EDGE Pathway
STEM EDGE is a pipeline program that provides opportunities for students to continue their STEM engagement and progress throughout secondary school.
Year 7 - 8October 2026 | 1-Day Campus ExperienceAn on-campus experience for Yr 7 and 8 students. Students will hear from accomplished female academics about studying and working in STEM, as well as participate in hands-on STEM workshops. Victorian secondary schools are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to nominate up to ten female or gender-diverse Year 7 students. If you would like to be contacted when EOIs next open, please email the STEM EDGE Coordinator. Teachers can also subscribe to our quarterly STEM for Schools Newsletter, where STEM EDGE and other opportunities are announced. |
Year 9September 2026 | STEM Camp Year 9 students who participated in the 1-Day Campus Experience in Year 7 and/or 8 will be invited to apply for the 3-day STEM EDGE Camp at the University of Melbourne's Dookie Campus. The camp provides a broad range of STEM activities including workshops, a team project and a careers panel, as well as a visit to Dookie’s dairy farm. Students will also have opportunities to connect with female and gender-diverse STEM role models. |
Year 10June 2026 | Year 10 Work Experience in the Faculty of ScienceStudents who participate in the Year 9 STEM EDGE Camp are offered a place in the Faculty of Science Year 10 Work Experience Program. Students are placed with University academics and staff in a STEM discipline stream that aligns with their interests and take part in the broader Faculty work experience program alongside other Year 10 students. |
Year 112026 Year 12 Starts 2027 | Mentoring ProgramStudents can continue their STEM EDGE experience into Year 11 through a mentoring program connecting them with female and gender-diverse graduate student mentors in STEM disciplines. The program provides opportunities to explore STEM pathways, learn from others’ experiences, and connect with like-minded students as they consider their options beyond school. |
Meet the Program Coordinator, Sam Harris-Wetherbee
Sam (she/her) studied biology and has master’s degrees in botany and science communication. She has worked in research support, science communication and program coordination roles in Australia and the United States. Sam is interested in how outreach can support more inclusive pathways into STEM, helping students build confidence and see what’s possible.
For more information, please contact the STEM EDGE Coordinator.