A newly funded program led by UNSW Sydney’s Professor Donna Green will soon enable NSW primary school teachers to equip their students with the knowledge and practical skills to face natural disasters.
The NSW Government has recently announced funding for a UNSW Sydney-led program for upper primary school students on bushfire and air quality management.
The Fresh AIR Innovators program combines technology, environmental awareness and entrepreneurial spirit to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.
Project lead Professor Donna Green from the UNSW School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences says the program is a re-think on how STEM and disaster resilience is taught in schools.
“The program is designed to address a critical need in our community—the need for increased awareness and preparedness in the face of natural hazards, particularly bushfires,” Prof. Green says.
“Through this program, students are not just learning about air quality and bushfire management—they are actively designing approaches to real-world problems.
“We're not just teaching them about these challenges; we're empowering our students to be part of the solution.”
Future-proofing the next generation
Fresh AIR Innovators received funding from the NSW Natural Hazards STEM Support Program, which focuses on the technologies directly relevant to the management of and response to disasters.
“The Natural Hazards STEM Support Program was created to inspire our students to become the next generation of innovators and technologists, prepare them for natural hazards management, and build community resilience and awareness,” says NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant Whyte.
The program is a re-think on how STEM and disaster resilience is taught in schools.
The Fresh AIR Innovators is an eight-week program of hands-on learning, with students engaging in practical, real-world activities. This includes collaborating to build low-cost air quality sensors and construct HEPA filters. It involves exploring traditional fire management techniques through 'DeadlyScience' cultural burning modules.
“Through our collaboration with Energy Lab, students will also develop business plans and pitch their ideas, nurturing their entrepreneurial skills,” Prof. Green says.
The program aligns with local fire services and resources to connect classroom learning with community preparedness.
When will the program be ready?
The Fresh AIR Innovators should be ready for delivery in June 2025 across NSW, including regional areas. Around 100 schools will receive tinker boxes in the initial round, but any school can access free online resources.
Prof. Green says this includes curriculum-aligned materials, professional development opportunities, as well as mentor and industry professional support for teachers.
Fresh AIR Innovators supports and aligns with the NSW Department of Education Curriculum’s STEM education strategy.
“We're excited about the potential of Fresh AIR Innovators to not only increase STEM engagement but also to build more resilient communities.”