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Science Week 2025: Inspiring STEM wonder in early learning environments
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May 12, 2025
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National Science Week returns this August, inviting early learning services to celebrate science with children through curiosity, creativity and play.
Held from 9 to 17 August, National Science Week is one of Australia’s largest community festivals, with more than 2,000 events planned nationwide. For early childhood education and care (ECEC) services, the event is an opportunity to build on children’s questions and interests while connecting learning to the Early Years Learning Framework.This year’s theme, Decoding the Universe: Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language, encourages children and educators to notice patterns, investigate how things work and imagine possibilities. It supports learning outcomes such as:
- Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
- Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Services may choose to attend community events, explore online activities or create their own science-inspired experiences in familiar settings.
Highlights for early learning
Here are a few standout activities that may spark ideas for services, educators and families:
- Future foods and space gardeningChildren can explore sustainability and growing food in new environments by learning how scientists are developing edible plants for space. Events will take place in Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and online. Educators can extend the theme with gardening projects, sensory play and food-based provocations.
- Eco-forensics and science inquiryA mobile science lab in Melbourne invites participants to solve environmental mysteries. Services might take inspiration by setting up their own science table with magnifiers, natural objects and clues to explore together.
- Voices from CountryAn online multimedia series shares the knowledge of First Nations Elders, scientists and environmental stewards. This resource may support cultural learning, storytelling and conversations about caring for Country in early childhood programs.
- Young Tassie Scientists on tourIn Tasmania, a team of young scientists will visit communities to deliver fun, engaging presentations. Services may be able to attend or host a visit, or invite local experts to share their knowledge with children.
- Science through music and movementThe Ammonites, a band of fossil-loving performers, and palaeontologist Professor Flint are touring a musical science show that blends facts with fun. Their performances are engaging for younger audiences and will visit Adelaide, Alice Springs, Perth and Geraldton.
While not every event is designed for the early years, many activities can be adapted or used as inspiration for in-service learning. Educators are also encouraged to create their own events, such as nature walks, water play investigations, or storytelling sessions featuring science themes.
A national celebration for all ages
Established in 1997, National Science Week has become a key moment in the Australian calendar. In 2024, more than 3.4 million people took part in activities that celebrated science in schools, homes, libraries, galleries and community spaces.In 2025, the festival coincides with the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and Australia’s hosting of the International Mathematical Olympiad, placing science, maths and critical thinking in the spotlight.
Science in early childhood does not need to be complex. Whether it’s testing how far water flows, wondering how seeds sprout or watching shadows change throughout the day, everyday moments offer rich learning opportunities.
To explore events or resources, visit www.scienceweek.net.au. For educator tools and media materials, visit the Science Week Media Centre.
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