The BHP Billiton Science Awards recognise and reward both students undertaking scientific research and innovative, committed science teachers at primary and secondary levels.
The student awards reward young people who have undertaken practical research projects that demonstrate innovative approaches and thorough scientific procedures. There are four categories of awards: biology & microbiology; chemistry & biochemistry; physics, engineering & technology and environmental & earth sciences.
Awards/Prizes
Over 100 cash prizes and trips for students, plus an award for the school producing the most prize-winning entries. There are four winners each year - one winner per category. Each winner receives $1,000, a commemorative plaque, a trip on an exciting two-day Science Camp and travel to the Presentation Day event in Melbourne.They also win a plaque for their school. Twelve finalists win $100, a trip on the exciting two-day Science Camp, a Certificate of Excellence and travel to the Presentation Day event in Melbourne. Encouragement prizes of $50 and a Certificate of Merit are awarded to 100 applicants of a high standard. Prize packs are awarded to 50 primary-aged students The school that produces the most prize-winning entries wins an award of $2,000.
Cost
Entry is free.
Age Groups
The BHP Billiton Science Awards are open to all Australian permanent residents enrolled full-time in primary or secondary schools in Australia (including home-schooled) or undertaking full-time secondary study in TAFE colleges. Groups of up to three students may enter (school and class group entries may also be considered).
Contact
Web: http://scienceawards.bhpbilliton.com
Dorothy Mackellar Poetry Awards
Nature of Activity
The aim of the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards is to capture the imagination of every school student in Australia, inspiring them with a passion for poetry. It is a unique National project, giving Australia's young people a voice and an opportunity to strive for excellence in literature.
Age Groups
All school aged children
Cost
$11 per school
Prizes
A range of plaques, trophies and cash prizes.
Contact
The Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards
PO Box 113
GUNNEDAH NSW 2380
Phone: (02) 6740 2233
Fax: (02) 6740 2237
Email: dorothea@northnet.com.au
Web: http://www.dorothea.com.au/
EngQuest
Nature of Activity
Competitions run in Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Northern Territory which seek to encourage primary and secondary students’ interest in science, technology and engineering.
Register in May, submit entries by end of July, winners announced September.
Age Groups
All primary and secondary students from K Year 10
Prizes
Prizes for regional and state winners, all participants receive a Certificate of Participation. Additional prizes are offered by Scitech in WA.
The Fellowship of Australian Writers administers several national competitions and awards for young writers: poetry, short stories and creative writing including the Hilarie Lindsay Awards, an annual school writing competition. Also provides access to publishing chances in school magazines (NSW); Free xpresSion, Voiceworks – magazines for children.
Entries are due by the end of November.
Age Groups
10 to 14 years and 15 to 20 years. Open categories also available.
Cost
From $3 to $10
Prizes
From $50 to $350
Contact
PO Box 3036
RIPPONLEA VIC 3183
(please enclose a stamped self addressed envelope if you require a reply)
Phone/Fax: (03) 9528 7088
FORD MATHS TALENT QUEST
Nature of Activity
A project based mathematics competition open to all students. Selected entries are forwarded to national level. Projects can be in the form of models, posters, games, technology. The topic is open. Aims to promote interest in and awareness of maths amongst students, teachers, parents. Information is sent to schools.
Future Problem Solving originated in Athens, Georgia, 28 years ago as an innovative program to encourage gifted students. The aim of the program is to challenge and motivate gifted students to think more creatively by becoming involved in activities to increase the flexibility, fluency, originality and collaboration of their thinking, develop research skills, improve communication skills and solve problems by thinking critically and analytically.These students have something to tell us all about future directions for the world, especially in the field of virtual corporations - as well as about the fun and challenge of international competition, and pride in representing Australia.
Cost
Entry ranges from $80 per entry to $115, depending on type of entry.
Age Groups
K-12
Contact
Problem Solving Program Australia Inc Level One, 5 Robinlee Avenue PO Box 4350 BURWOOD EAST VIC 3151Phone: (03) 9886 4646 Fax: (03) 9886 4747Email: (Allyson Bougoure) office@fpsp.org.au Web: http://www.fpsp.org.au
Harvey Norman Oz Spell
Nature of Activity
Harvey Norman OZSPELL - The Australian Spelling Championship is a national spelling competition for school-age students. All entered teams are provided with a spelling reference. Competition begins at school level and moves to regional then national level. Can be included in class programming or as individual work.
The OZSPELL National Champion receives a $10,000 savings account and a $20,000 computer and software prize for their school. All who enter the competition receive a Certificate of Participation.
