CSIRO and Chevron Extend Living STEM Programme for Pilbara Schools in 2026
The Living STEM education programme will continue across Western Australia’s Pilbara region in 2026, expanding initiatives that integrate Indigenous knowledge with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning in schools. Delivered by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, in partnership with Chevron Australia, the programme supports teachers to embed local Indigenous Knowledges in classroom teaching while strengthening connections between schools and community organisations. Details of the programme’s latest phase were outlined in a recent announcement from CSIRO.
Launched in 2023, Living STEM works with primary and secondary school educators to deliver hands-on, culturally grounded learning experiences for students. The programme emphasises collaboration with Indigenous communities to connect scientific learning with local environmental knowledge and cultural practices.
Programme Expansion to Include Indigenous Ranger Engagement
In 2026, a new initiative will involve Indigenous Rangers working with students to share local ecological knowledge and demonstrate how traditional practices relate to modern STEM disciplines. The effort will be delivered in partnership with the Pilbara Ranger Network, with a focus on connecting young people to Indigenous scientific knowledge through practical learning activities.
According to CSIRO, the programme has already built strong partnerships between educators and Indigenous communities. In 2025, Living STEM engaged 31 schools and provided professional learning opportunities to 57 educators, including 39 teachers, 10 school leaders and six Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers.
“By working alongside Indigenous Rangers, community and local organisations, we’re ensuring young people see STEM as something real, relevant and connected to their lives,” — Ruth Carr, Director of CSIRO Education and Outreach, CSIRO
Ms Carr said the next phase of the programme aims to deepen these partnerships and create additional opportunities for educators and students across the Pilbara.
Community of Practice to Support Regional Educators
A central component of the 2026 programme is the creation of a new Community of Practice designed to support educators working across the region. The network will provide a platform for teachers to collaborate, share resources and address common challenges when delivering culturally connected STEM education.
The Community of Practice will be co-designed and delivered on Country with community organisations. Planned activities include professional learning sessions, teacher leadership development, networking events and ongoing resource sharing.
“The new Community of Practice will provide educators with a platform to stay connected and work together to address challenges, ensuring the program continues to make an impact across the local community. It will also foster ongoing collaboration among teachers and enable deeper engagement with Traditional Owners,” — Ruth Carr, Director of CSIRO Education and Outreach, CSIRO
Chevron Australia says the partnership demonstrates how collaboration between research institutions, industry and communities can support education outcomes in regional areas.
“Living STEM connects classroom learning with local knowledge and hands on experiences,” — Jill Byrne, Community and Reputation Manager, Chevron Australia
“It shows how partnerships can support education outcomes and help create future STEM opportunities for young people across the Pilbara.”
Strengthening Pathways Into STEM Careers
Through Living STEM, educators work with schools to strengthen leadership roles, embed STEM teaching practices and extend collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The approach aims to ensure science education reflects local knowledge systems while also supporting reconciliation and cultural respect.
The programme reflects a broader national effort to expand STEM capability and digital skills in Australian education systems. Initiatives such as AI integration across public schools in New South Wales and new university-led programmes like the inclusive AI education initiative at Western Sydney University highlight the growing emphasis on preparing students for technology-driven careers.
By linking Indigenous knowledge with inquiry-based science learning, Living STEM aims to give students hands-on experiences that demonstrate how STEM concepts apply to their local environment and communities, while opening pathways to future education and employment in science and technology fields.
