Why does National Science Week matter, and how can schools ignite student curiosity and community involvement during this nationwide celebration? Today we speak with Paula Taylor, President of the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA) and recipient of the 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools. We explore her perspectives on National Science Week, why hands-on science engagement is essential, and practical ways schools and educators can get involved to make STEM accessible for every learner.

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

About Paula Taylor
Mrs Paula Taylor is an exemplary STEM leader with over 30 years of classroom teaching experience across K–12. She currently serves as a system-wide STEM leader in the ACT with the Academy of Future Skills. Mrs Taylor creates innovative, problem-based programs that bring complex scientific concepts to life, having directly impacted more than 10,000 students and co-taught alongside 480 classroom teachers to boost engagement and achievement.

In addition to being awarded the prestigious 2025 Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools, Paula is the President of the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA). She is deeply dedicated to mentoring educators, raising the profile of the teaching profession, and advocating alongside industry, peak bodies, and government to build the next generation of STEM innovators.

About National Science Week
National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology, held every August. First established in 1997, it has grown into one of Australia's largest national festivals, featuring thousands of in-person and online events, virtual tours, DIY science activities, and school expos across the country to inspire future generations and spark public interest in STEM.
https://www.scienceweek.net.au/

About ASTA
The Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA) is the national peak body and federation of Science Teacher Associations across every state and territory in Australia. Established in 1951, ASTA is a national not-for-profit organisation representing thousands of members. For 75 years, ASTA has led the advance of science education by providing high-quality resources, professional development, and a collaborative community dedicated to ensuring all Australian students receive world-class STEM learning.
https://asta.edu.au/

Hosted by Ben Newsome from Fizzics Education

With interviews with leading science educators and STEM thought leaders, this science education podcast is about highlighting different ways of teaching kids within and beyond the classroom. It's not just about educational practice & pedagogy, it's about inspiring new ideas & challenging conventions of how students can learn about their world!

https://www.fizzicseducation.com.au/

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