Science Academy

Students in the Genetics project set up a gel electrophoresis experiment to separate DNA fragments according to their size (January 2021).

Students, do you have a passion for science?

The Science Academy is an exciting programme aimed at  potentially high-achieving Year 13 students from rural/provincial, small, Kura and formerly lower decile schools, who have a passion for science and the potential to excel in their final year NCEA and/or scholarship science exams.

The Science Academy provides Year 13 students the opportunity to:

• Work alongside, and be challenged by, leading scientists across a wide range of disciplines.
• Participate in a programme of stimulating science research projects and fun social events.
• Develop confidence in communicating with fellow scientists and relating your science to a wider audience.
• Engage in enjoyable, meaningful, and challenging on-line extension work while networking with like-minded budding scientists from across the country.

What does the Science Academy involve?

You will attend two residential science camps on the University of Otago campus, a summer science camp in January and a winter science camp in July.

Between science camps you will work collaboratively in small teams on a science communication project that you will present at end of the July camp.

Following the July camp you be supported by our online tutors, who will present 10 online tutorials targeted at NCEA/scholarship physics, chemistry, and biology in the run up to your externals at the end of the year.

View the entry requirements and register for Science Academy

Students dissecting a deer's knee joint during the Anatomy project, with help from a lab assistant (January 2021).

Teachers, would you like to enhance your ability to teach science?

Alongside the student programme, Science Academy runs teacher workshops every year. The workshops are targeted at teachers from schools who have students enrolled in Science Academy, although teachers from other schools are more than welcome.

Learn more about Science Academy Teacher Workshops