Be inspired bursaries

Are you a regional science educator who wants to celebrate the excitement of science, scientific discovery, and science education? The Be Inspired bursary was established with support form Inspiring Australia NSW to provide an opportunity for regional science teachers to attend the Science Teachers Association of NSW’s 2021 National Science Week celebrations, 7 Decades in 7 Days.

These high-profile events recognise science and educational advancements in Australia and celebrate the dedication of science teachers across New South Wales.

The Science Teachers Association of NSW celebrates its 70th birthday with more than a big bang, celebrating 70 years of promoting excellence in science education and scientific and educational advancements.

7 Decades in 7 Days is an opportunity to bring people together, to step out of the classroom and the labs, for families to converge in thought and space, to integrate with arts, and for diverse communities to celebrate that which makes us great. 70 years is a long time in scientific advancement. During this time, Australia pioneered the way in cochlear implants, we have revolutionised mental health treatment, we forged the way in ultrasound technology and we have driven technology that has ensured safe flight.

Behind the scientists that drive this innovation and progress for a better world were the science teachers, who believed in inspiring their students, who supported them to reach further and higher and remain curious about the world in which we live.

Recognising the scientific advancement of the traditional owners of this land 7 Decades in 7 Days will be kicking celebrations off with a cultural tour of Sydney Harbour in an Aboriginal Astronomy Cruise.

Across National Science Week and in partnership with some of NSW’s significant cultural institutions, the Australian Museum, Taronga Zoo, Garvan Institute and the Powerhouse Museum, the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum 7 Decades in 7 Days will showcase the advances in science and education.

These events include:

  • Science in the House – Showcases Science Education and public discourse. The Minister for Education and the Shadow Minister for Education create an opportunity for Members of the NSW Parliament to come together and acknowledge the great work being done by Science Teachers and Educators.
  • Celebrating Strong Women in Science – Recognising some of our great female trailblazers with Professor Susan Clark FAA, Sarah Alexandrou, and Associate Professor Elissa Deenick at Garvan.
  • Propelled by Science: The Future of Energy – Collaboration with The Powerhouse Museum provides an opportunity to network with fellow teachers exploring where scientific advancement pushes social boundaries. Moderated by Professor Fred Watson,
  • Astronomer-at-Large – a discussion with speakers Matthew Connell and Dr Sarah Reeves.
  • 70s Dinner Party at the Museum – includes an address by Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley and Dr Karl Kruszelnicki join the conversation about science education in Australia – The past, future and present.
  • Family Fun Day at the Zoo – Celebrate with your family at Taronga Zoo. Explore the advancements in animal conservation over the past 7 Decades. A zoo trail that dives deep into the skill of thinking scientifically and you’ll hear from conservation scientists on the latest in protecting species.

The Support

Be Inspired bursaries are providing a unique opportunity for regional science educators to attend these celebrations. Access to these events will ensure regional science teachers are able to broaden their professional network thus creating deeper community connections with their colleagues.

This is an exciting chance for regional science teachers to gain insights into our world class scientific and cultural institutions, while being immersed in cutting edge science. 

There are FIVE bursaries available up to the value of $1000. These bursaries are to be used to attend ONE of the NSW Science Teachers Association National Science Week celebrations listed above. 

Bursaries will provide funding for event registration, travel costs, accommodation, and/or teacher relief to the value of $1000.    

Closing Date:  Midnight Sunday 18th July 2021 

Open to all teachers of science, both primary and secondary, teaching in any regional New South Wales school. Regional areas are defined as the Central Coast, Central West & Orana, Far West, Hunter, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, New England & North West, North Coast, Riverina Murray, South East & Tablelands. 

Teachers need to be full individual members of the Science Teachers’ Association of NSW or be teaching at a school with school membership to the Science Teachers’ Association of NSW.   


Each applicant shall provide a brief statement (no more than 500 words) to support their application for one or more of the Be Inspired bursaries. This statement will

  • Identify the NSW Science Teachers Association 2021 National Science Week celebration event that you are seeking support to attend (see listed above)
  • Explain why you are interested to attend this event and how you plan to take the insights from this event back to your regional school community.

Successful applicants must provide a report (no more than 500 words) to STANSW within 1 month of the NSW Science Teachers Association 2021 National Science Week event.

The Be Inspired bursaries have been supported by Inspiring Australia NSW as part of National Science Week. Learn more about how to apply at the NSW Science Teachers Association website. Further information on all the 7 Decades in 7 Days events can be found here