Students from St Fidelis School, Moreland 

The inaugural national Catholic schools STEM MAD (Making a Difference) showcase was held on 16 November with student and teacher state finalists from 22 Catholic schools around the country.

The event was held virtually and showcased how participants are prepared to push the boundaries to solve problems for the future.

Themed 'Learning from the past to build a better future', students were challenged to present solutions designed to make a difference by addressing a service, the environment, or a product, through the lens of Catholic stewardship, solidarity, common good, citizenship, humanity, and wellbeing.

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools acting executive director Dr Paul Sharkey said Catholic schools aim to not only be innovative and leaders in teaching and learning, but also to make a positive difference in the world.

"What better way to bring this philosophy to life than by challenging students to address real world science and engineering problems in a way that also acts for justice and the common good," Dr Sharkey said.

Judges considered design process, innovative application of scientific and mathematical concepts, engineering and communication principles and the distinction of making a difference in the world by acting for justice and the common good.

The event was made possible with the generous support of Catholic Network Australia.

Congratulations to the major award winners:

STEM MAD National – Primary Schools Award
St John's Catholic School, Richmond, Tasmania
‘Capaci Carbon Scrubber’

STEM MAD National Secondary Schools Award
St Eugene College, Burpengary, Queensland
‘Beach Mate’

*STEM MAD National – ‘Future is STEM’ Primary Schools Award
St Vincent’s Primary School, Clear Island Waters, Queensland
‘Vision Buddy’

*STEM MAD National – ‘Future is STEM’ Secondary Schools Award
Magdalene College, Narellan, New South Wales
‘CLT Eco Office’

*(The 'Future is STEM' category recognises and encourages students creating projects which demonstrate all the STEM capabilities but don’t quite meet the 'MAD' criteria)

Read more via CNA's website