Spark6 – Building a Better Perth

At Santa Maria College, we encourage our students to harness their creativity and critical thinking to make a real-world impact. This year, our Year 6 students took part in Spark6, an exciting project that asked them:

“How can we use technology to create positive change for future Perth?”

Focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 – building sustainable, safe, and inclusive cities – students explored pressing challenges and developed forward-thinking solutions for a brighter tomorrow.

Problem-Solving for a Better Future

In Spark6, students identified key issues facing Perth, such as pollution, homelessness, and the preservation of cultural heritage. But they didn’t stop at identifying these problems – they worked together to create tech-driven solutions. Whether designing eco-friendly devices or finding ways to protect heritage sites, they used research, teamwork, and creativity to bring their ideas to life. Throughout the project, they also developed essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and public speaking.

Innovative Ideas for Perth

 The ideas generated by our Year 6 students were nothing short of impressive. Their solutions tackled real-world issues with creativity and innovation, from pollution-reducing devices to educational tools using AI and VR. Some projects focused on building greener spaces, while others addressed homelessness through preventive measures. These initiatives showed not just ingenuity but a strong sense of responsibility toward the community.

Technology as a Force for Good

 Spark6 transformed the way our students see technology  – not just as a convenience but as a powerful force for positive change. They learned how technology can be used to solve complex problems and create a sustainable future. This project inspired them to think more deeply about their role in shaping a better world through innovation.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

Year 6 teacher Coreen Coster said, “As teachers, the most rewarding part of Spark6 was watching our students’ passion and determination grow. Their innovative ideas, fuelled by research and guided by purpose, highlight the bright futures ahead of them.”

At Santa Maria College, we take pride in empowering young women to become problem solvers and leaders, ready to make a lasting impact on Perth and beyond.

Hear from the Students!

“I loved the designing and creating element of Spark6 because we used our imagination. Seeing our vision come to life was amazing. We designed and built the ‘Connect Charm’ prototype, a stylish piece of jewellery with a hidden camera, microphone, and emergency button. It helps the community feel safe, and we even created an app to connect with it!” Mia, Year 6

“I enjoyed working with new people, especially during the design process. Our group created a self-cleaning public toilet. We had our ups and downs, like when a group member was absent, but painting our cardboard toilet was fun! Getting feedback on our project was exciting, and it made me think about how we could improve next time. Building sustainable cities is both fun and achievable!” Leni, Year 6

“Spark 6 was an amazing experience; even though there were many challenges, we think everyone enjoyed it and made many new friends. This project helped us to discover so many more things about not just Perth but Australia too. Everyone put so much effort into their project, and we think that effort paid off because everybody’s projects were outstanding. For our project, my group and I took on the problem of homelessness and asked ourselves how we could be more inclusive towards homeless people. We came up with the idea to build a website/app and a Community House.” Greta, Year 6

“Spark 6 was such a really fun experience! Even though there were some tricky parts, I think everyone really enjoyed it. My project was all about pollution and how people don’t always sort their rubbish properly. We came up with an idea for a smart bin that helps make sure rubbish goes in the right place. Hopefully, it can help stop animals from going extinct and keep our land from getting ruined by waste.” Alice, Year 6

“I absolutely loved working with my amazing partner and it also helped me form so many more relationships with the girls in Year 6. My group created a system called the Preventative Homelessness Shelter, which will help all financially struggling individuals feel a sense of responsibility and have the courage to get back on their feet. It works by AI tracking when an individual is struggling, and an invitation will be immediately sent to them. Our shelter would provide them with job opportunities, education, and many basic necessities. Taking inspiration from Catherine McAuley, when the person is back on their feet, they only need to pay the amount they think we provided them with. All the money earned will then go to our community.” Alannah, Year 6

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