On Monday 28th November we opened the STEAM Innovation Expo to the parent community and Year 8 STEAM entrance students for 2023, as well as teachers. This was an opportunity to celebrate the learning and growth that has happened throughout the year.

The goal of STEAM community projects is to empower learners, both individually and collectively providing them with opportunities to develop not only the knowledge but also the skills, attitudes and values that enable them to to realise their potential throughout their lives. Learners need to develop a sense of responsibility to actively participate in their communities, Aotearoa and the World. 

All 14 groups showcased their projects to the community who them voted for the top 5 groups that subsequently had to face a Shark Tank of inspiring women in STEAM and Westlake Alumna judges at different stages of their STEAM journey. A big thank you to our shark tank judges: Jean Yang, Cindy Cai, Ariana George, Grace Chen and Hannah Jones.

Jean Yang said “It was a joy to come back to Westlake Girls and see such bright young students applying their skills to make a difference. I was impressed by the way the students picked thoughtful problems to tackle, created innovative solutions, demonstrated team work and delivered such compelling pitches. It was difficult to believe they are only year 10s! The STEAM program will be absolutely creating leaders of the future.”

Grace Chen said “As someone who was a part of the STEAM programme for two years, it was amazing to come back and see the amazing projects created this year. All of the projects were innovative, futuristic and community-driven. It was amazing to see the passion and drive the students had for the issues they were tackling.”

‘All Good Things’ were the winners of the Community Award and ‘Biotide’ were the winners of the Innovation Award. Also presenting to the shark tank was Memory Vault, Semi finalists of the 123 Tech challenge.