Program accelerates students into science

Lisa Reardon (centre) with students Tahira Scott (left) and TIffany O'Brien (right)

As the first contingent of high school students involved in the Accelerated Biomedical Science (ABMS) program at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) near completion the next cohort are all set to begin.

Thirteen local high school students have been attending a three-hour class each week at the University and accessing online resources as part of the program which, on completion, will enable them to enter second year Biomedical Science at USQ.

Program Coordinator and Associate Lecturer in Biomedical Science Lisa Reardon said the students will now complete the final component of the course externally.

'The students finished the on campus workshops on the 16th of June and will now come back and do an external course in anatomy and physiology and then will have completed the equivalent to the first year of biology and chemistry.

'Most, if not all, will be starting their second year of a Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2009 which saves them a whole year of studies.'

Developed in conjunction with the Toowoomba Education Coalition, the ABMS program involves year 11 students from private and state schools throughout the local region.

Ms Reardon said the program offers students mentoring, networks and the experience of studying on campus to assist their transition to second year university.

'They're really excited about coming on campus to undertake their second year as a close knit group of students,' she said.

Branko Borojevic from Centenary Heights State High School said he has found the program beneficial.

'It's been really good and it has also improved my school results,' Branko said.

'The extended practicals have been great. We get to do all sorts of dissections and have extended work from what we do at school.'

Ms Reardon has been visiting local schools to recruit the next cohort of students who will start the program in semester two this year.

'I visit all schools face-to-face. This year I've been to 18 schools in Toowoomba and within one hour travelling distance – Dalby, Clifton, Pittsworth, Oakey - to speak to their year 11 students.

'The students need to study biology, chemistry and maths B, and have B grades in each. They also need a mature approach to study and be interested in a career in science or health.'

Teachers from schools involved in the program are given the opportunity to participate in the program as well.

'We also have a teacher professional development side. Schools with students attending have the option to come on campus and participate in the lab sessions.'

For further information on the ABMS program contact the University on 1800 640 678.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559