In partnership with The University of Queensland (UQ), Loreto Toorak is proud to launch an exciting new pilot Marine Biology Immersion Program for Years 10 and 11 students.
With more students choosing to study in Queensland each year, these partnerships open pathways that may not have been considered before.
Held at UQ’s renowned Moreton Bay Research Station on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), the experience provides students with the opportunity to learn alongside university academics, undertake authentic scientific investigations and gain first-hand insight into future STEAM study and career pathways. Students will also have the opportunity to visit The University of Queensland’s St Lucia Campus in Brisbane to discover the study courses available and tour the campus.
The immersion builds on Loreto Toorak’s established partnerships with leading tertiary institutions, including Monash University, Deakin University and Australian Catholic University, reflecting our commitment to creating meaningful pathways to further study beyond the School gates.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Loreto Toorak, excellence in Teaching and Learning means connecting students with real-world experiences that deepen understanding, ignite curiosity and build confidence.
The immersion will commence with a Welcome to Country by Elisha Kissock, a proud Quandamooka woman, then spend time broadening their understanding of First Nations connection to land and sea and what it means to be the caretakers of this land.
Students will then explore diverse marine and freshwater ecosystems through fieldwork, research activities and lectures delivered by university experts. Topics covered include coral and fish diversity, turtle and manta ray conservation, mangrove and seagrass ecosystems, plankton investigations and the environmental impact of marine debris.
These experiences allow students to apply their learning in authentic settings while developing the critical thinking, collaboration and research skills increasingly valued by universities and future employers.
For students considering future pathways in STEAM, the immersion offers a unique opportunity to the behind-the-scenes into university-level learning. By working directly with researchers and exploring one of Australia’s most significant ecological environments, students gain valuable insight into the possibilities that may lie ahead.
“At Loreto Toorak, we are committed to creating learning experiences that inspire students to think beyond what they know and explore what is possible. Our partnership with The University of Queensland provides students with an opportunity to engage with learning designed to prepare students for tertiary success and gain valuable insight into future study and career pathways in the sciences,” shares Melissa Etherton, Director of Innovation and Partnerships.
Whatever direction a student’s journey takes, Loreto Toorak is committed to creating an environment where she can flourish, explore her interests and discover what is possible.
Explore the Loreto Toorak curriculum at an upcoming Open Morning by registering here.
