Congratulations to Year 10 boys Sebastian Hodge (10/ME) and Jason Ren (10/MA) on coming equal first and second in their categories at the 2015 STANSW Young Scientist Award at the University of Wollongong. Sebastian placed equal first in the Communications Award for his work on computer processor performance and clock speed, while Jason placed second in the Scientific Investigation (Biology) category for his work on the antimicrobial properties of copper.

Both boys acknowledged their Science classes for providing the academic background and methodological rigour to allow them to participate in the competition. Sebastian said that Science and Electronics have been the most useful subjects in providing him with a background in the topic area he looked at for his project, and Jason said the report writing skills that he learned through Science as well as English taught him how to conduce an investigation and refine what he is trying to say.

After being exposed to a range of works from students around the state, both boys stated that there were many projects that were inspiring. Jason in particular mentioned that a students work on the synthesis and analysis of composite biodegradable plastic was particularly thought-provoking and it was great to see how other young scientists around the state think.

When it comes to giving advice to budding scientists who are thinking of following in their footsteps, both Jason and Sebastian recommended that candidates choose something they are truly interested in. Sebastian said, “Many of the winning projects were simple but done well, and something that related to the person, as they were willing to spend a lot of time on it.” Jason adds that future candidates should make their project not just for the competition, but in the spirit of learning something new. “Don’t aim to tick the boxes,” he said.

With the competition now over, the boys’ projects will now be submitted into the BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Award. Regardless of what happens next on the competition circuit, Jason said that doing a self-directed project that had no word limit allowed him to set his own limits to what he could and could not do and really tested his initiative and time management skills. Sebastian on the other hand is grateful for having been given the opportunity to see his ideas being tested by others and to receive feedback.

Over 42 schools sent candidates to compete in this State wide competition. 

Congratulations again to Sebastian and Jason on their outstanding results and to the teachers and family members whom have supported them and nurtured their inquisitive minds.