Greencoats Meet Bluecoats: Lockerby students ‘STEP’ into science communicator role

When Lockerby Composite School Science and Technology Education Program students step into the role of science communicators, the Science North Bluecoats will serve as mentors and models for the Lockerby Greencoats.

Greencoats Meet Bluecoats is a collaboration between the science centre and the high school, bringing public education and science education together to give Grade 10 Lockerby STEP students the chance to flex their science communication muscles through what are termed “Integration Days”.

“Integration Days are a highlight of our year-long schooling model in our revitalized Science Technology Education Program,” said Ryan Lafraniere, the principal of Lockerby Composite, in a press release.

He said Integration Days give students the chance to learn from community mentors while taking part in hands-on learning opportunities. Students also work collaboratively to build technological skills, learn about engineering design and investigate local issues while enhancing their communication skills, the press release states.

“By connecting students with our Bluecoats, we’re helping young people build confidence as science communicators while inspiring the next generation of curious minds,” said Science North CEO Ashley Larose. “It’s a meaningful way to bring science to life and strengthen connections within our community.”

The two-day initiative kicked-off May 6 at Science North.

Grade 10 STEP students participated in a half-day Science Communication 101 workshop in the Vale Cavern. They explored what science communication is, why it matters, and how they will use these skills for ‘Lockerby STEP Greencoats Meet Science North Bluecoats Day’.

Together, Lockerby students learned how to teach and communicate science to Grade 8 students from nearby elementary schools for the official Greencoats Meet Bluecoats Day on May 12.

Greencoats will be tasked with building a scavenger hunt and tour narrative (across all Science North floors) that is engaging, age appropriate and interactive for young scientists from Alexander Public School, Copper Cliff Public School, MacLeod Public School, and Princess Anne Public School for the May 12 event.

Supported by the Science North Bluecoats around the science centre, more than 100 Lockerby STEP Greencoats will be mentoring over 150 Grade 8 students from Rainbow Schools.