South32 : delivers STEM boost for schools

MEDIA RELEASE

7 July 2020

SOUTH32 DELIVERS STEM BOOST FOR SCHOOLS

South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and Wollongong's Science Space are helping to bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects to life for local students thanks to an innovative partnership brought about by the recent COVID-19 restrictions.

When COVID-19 forced the closure of local schools, South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and Science Space teamed up to create kits containing STEM equipment, experiments, projects and activities in line with the NSW curriculum, to help Year Three and Four primary students learn from home. It came as Science Space also closed due to COVID-19, meaning students could not visit and interact with its educational displays.

A pilot program for the STEM kits was launched at Mount Kembla Public School, with the initial idea to give students one each to take home and use during remote learning classes. But it proved so successful and popular the kits are now being rolled out to more schools, to boost learning in the classroom.

The STEM kits also provide opportunities for live video conferencing experiences with staff at Science Space and links to online educational videos.

"This is a great initiative that is helping to inspire local students and prepare them for the jobs of the future,"

said South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal Vice President Operations, Wayne Bull.

"Many employers, including South32, value STEM skills very highly. It is the foundation of much of what we do at Illawarra Metallurgical Coal and we are proud to play a part in supporting our local communities."

Ainsley Larosa, Science Teacher & Librarian, Mount Kembla Public School, added: "We have really enjoyed the opportunity to learn from real scientists about scientific method and practice. The hands-on activities and Zoom conferences were excellent learning experiences that allowed students to find their love for science."

Examples of activities in the STEM kits include a project for students to create a mini terrarium garden with its own eco-system. The project is designed to teach students about planning and conducting scientific investigations, collecting data and reviewing results with classmates.

It is hoped the STEM kits will be distributed to around 800 students at 26 schools in the Illawarra, Wollondilly, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands. So far, five schools with more than 300 children have joined the program, including Mount Kembla Public School. The other schools are; Amity College, Shellharbour, Calderwood Christian School, St Pius X Primary School, Unanderra and St Paul's Catholic School, Camden. Other schools are encouraged to take part. To do so please contact University of Wollongong's Science

Space, Kim Noble on email:[e-mail].

Ends

About South32

South32 is a globally diversified mining and metals company. Our purpose is to make a difference by developing natural resources, improving people's lives now and for generations to come. We are trusted by our owners and partners to realise the potential of

their resources. We produce bauxite, alumina, aluminium, energy and metallurgical coal, manganese, nickel, silver, lead and zinc at our operations in Australia, Southern Africa and South America. With a focus on growing our base metals exposure, we also have two development options in North America and several partnerships with junior explorers around the world.

Registered Office Level 35 108 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Australia

ABN 84 093 732 597 Registered in Australia

Further Information

Media Relations Miles Godfrey

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Further information on South32 can be found atwww.south32.net.