Students in Years 5 and 6 have undertaken a challenge to use their creativity and curiosity to generate innovative ideas that can improve their world.

As part of their studies into design technology, the students have been following an authentic ‘future ready’ curriculum that will help take their ideas beyond the classroom and into the real world as passionate entrepreneurs.

In Term 1, students were presented with a real-world problem to solve. It needed to be close to home and have a deep connection to them.

“With Graceville Memorial Park so close to the school, students considered how they could make the space more inclusive for the various user groups,” Year 5 teacher Mrs Phoebe Berg says.

Using the Design Thinking methodology, students have been working together on their solutions, which involve emphasising, defining, ideating, prototyping, testing and pitching their ideas. They have also developed collaboration and project management skills.

Brisbane City Councillor Nicole Johnston recently visited the school to see students showcase their prototypes. The top four teams then pitched their solution to the problem before a winner was announced.

“Students delivered such passionate solutions to creating an inclusive playground for all people,” Year 6 teacher Miss Jessie Fraser says.

Cr Johnston and Christ the King School principal, Mr Damien Sullivan say they were “blown away” by the quality and innovative solutions the students presented.

The team consisting of Scarlett​​, Indi, Ella and Lucy took out the top place for their innovative and thoughtful design. 

“Their design catered to many different abilities and ages,” Mrs Berg says. “It provides a functional solution to ensure all people can access and enjoy Graceville Memorial Park.”

“We are truly impressed with all the students and the design solutions they came up with,” Miss Fraser says.

Years 5 and 6 students will now compete in the Brisbane Catholic Education STEM MAD Challenge to be held in Term 2 and Term 3.