Reading Enrichment Progam and the Rotary National Science and Technolgy Forum.
This week we had speakers from the Reading Enrichment Program and the Rotary National Science and Technology Forum.
Unfortunately due to a technological cock up - no memory card in your editors camera there are no photos.
Leonie Blake.
Leonie is the Program Manager of the Rotary Reading Enrichment Program(REP). She is formerly a teacher and has stepped into the role recently.
The Rotary Enrichment Programme (REP) is a community initiative sponsored by the Penrose Rotary Club. The focus of this program, is to enrich and enhance the literacy and reading skills of the College’s Year 9 students, while its aim is to accelerate their learning to prepare them for their future NCEA assessments.
Leonie’s goals are to consolidate the existing program and then grow the program from the current 7 schools in Auckland and one in Northland.
Leonie has visted all of the schools – her main take away being the need for Volunteers, so if you can volunteer.
Leonie is currently updating the website and improving the social media program for REP.
Enrico Haemmerle
Enrico is the Director of the Rotary National Science and Technology Forum. This is an annual event taking place at the Auckland University over the summer holidays period for over 30 years.
The forum gives the opportunity for year 12 High School mathematics and science students from all over New Zealand to explore tertiary level science, mathematics and technology programs. The students participate in lectures, laboratories and undertake field visits to business and research entities including NZ Police, TVNZ, ESR Landcare, The Liggins Institute, the Medical School and others.
Enrico made the comment that the students arrive as nerds and leave as innovators. The Forum is a once in a life-time opportunity for the students and for most if not all of them it is a defining and life-changing experience.
In his review of the forum, Enrico noted that it is not all lectures and site visits. As well as that aspect there are volleyball tournaments, a mini dragons den, quiz nights and a talent show.
All of these activities foster an esprit de corps and create friendships that are long-lasting.
As with all things these days, the forum costs money to run. About $450,000.00 which funds accommodation, transport and tuition fees. This is funded by fees, sponsors and other funding streams, all of which are getting tighter.
Enrico noted that we need to invest in research, we need to create and foster entrepreneurs and foster companies that dominate niche markets.
Enrico's presentation gave us a different perspective on the forum from those of the participants who present to us, but having said that it is clear the event is transformative for all concerned including both participants and those who run the forum.