New science/maths app on the way for pre-schoolers

JANUARY 13, 2016: A new app focused on encouraging an interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is on its way for pre-schoolers in the region.Following the positive feedback from a trial using apps to teach pre-schoolers another language, the Turnbull Government will look to replicate that success with an app to inspire young Australians’ interest in science and technology as part of its Innovation and Science Agenda.The ELLA languages app had great feedback in its initial trial and I'm looking forward to the expansion in more locations.We're spending $2.5 million to expand the languages trial for pre-schools, with the almost 1,000 schools that applied to be part of the trial but were unsuccessful now having the opportunity to apply in 2016.Based on this success, and as part of the Innovation and Science Agenda, the Turnbull Government will also develop a similar Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) focused app.We know that around 75 per cent of the fastest-growing industries require STEM-related skills, so the Turnbull Government has committed $6 million as part of the Innovation and Science Agenda to develop a STEM-focused app to ensure Australia’s youngest minds develop an interest in those fields.We understand that Australian families want educational tools in a form that works for them and their children and at a time, as early as possible in life, which helps build a life-long interest.I’m looking forward to seeing the languages and STEM apps in this part of the world and the resulting exciting opportunities they present.For more information visit https://www.education.gov.au/early-learning-languages-australia