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AMSI Industry Days for Teachers: Linking Classroom Maths to Future Careers
Mathematics plays a crucial role in a vast array of careers, from data science and engineering to health and emerging technology sectors. Despite the growing demand for mathematics skills in the workforce, The Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute’s (AMSI) 2024 Year 12 Mathematics Participation Report reveals that Australia is experiencing a decline in mathematics participation at secondary school, where enrolments in higher‑level mathematics courses are now at an all‑time low. Critically, there is persistent inequity in female participation in STEM studies and careers.
Supported by The Invergowrie Foundation, the AMSI Industry Days for Teachers seek to change the narrative, by equipping educators with the tools required to showcase exciting career opportunities that depend on quantitative skills, helping expand the growing STEM workforce and safeguard future economic prosperity.
With five free events planned across Victoria – including two in metropolitan areas at RMIT and Swinburne University, and three in regional locations at La Trobe University’s Mildura and Bendigo campuses, and Deakin University in Warrnambool – this initiative aims to foster stronger connections between schools, universities, and industry. By delivering these events regionally, AMSI aligns with The Invergowrie Foundation’s shared commitment to supporting female students from regional, rural, First Nations, and low SES backgrounds – groups that remain underrepresented in mathematical sciences and the broader STEM workforce.
AMSI Director, Professor Tim Marchant, highlights the importance of inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in mathematics and STEM, as it is crucial to Australia’s future.
“By equipping secondary teachers and career advisors with the knowledge of the opportunities in mathematics careers, we are helping to cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders.”
Throughout the events, participants will:
- Hear from industry professionals about how maths is applied in real-world settings
- Gain insights from academics into tertiary study options, entry requirements, and pathways into STEM careers
- Build capacity to engage with students about maths skills for their future careers
- Take part in a dedicated session addressing strategies to support students in building maths confidence and reducing anxiety, to encourage continued study in years 11 and 12
- Visit an industry organisation to learn about various industry career opportunities
- Receive a Certificate of Attendance acknowledging their participation in an AMSI professional learning activity, and a free AMSI showbag filled with useful resources
Participants also have the opportunity to host an AMSI Family Maths Night, an engaging event led by AMSI’s maths teaching specialist in collaboration with schools. Designed to deepen understanding of current teaching practices, these sessions emphasise the importance of mental computation strategies and inspire families to support their child’s mathematical learning in everyday life.
Learn more: https://amsi.org.au/amsi-industry-day-for-teachers/
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