What you’ll do
Over a 3-month placement, you’ll learn:
- tips and pointers on public speaking and presenting
- communication skills, so you can engage with all types of people – these include skills in science communication, customer service and talking to the public
- about the background of the various exhibits at Questacon.
Possible placements around the Centre include as a:
- Science Time assistant
- Volunteer Explainer
- Discovery Trolley Explainer.
What you’ll get from us
Through the Student Training Program, you’ll receive:
- ongoing training and support
- a certificate of completion
- credit towards your Higher School Certificate (HSC)
- inclusion in the reward and recognition program
- invitations to all our major events
- discounts from Atomic Catering and the Questacon Shop.
Key dates
The 2024 Student Training Program is underway and will finish on Thursday 1 August.
You will attend regular training sessions each Thursday afternoon from 4:30 to 6:30 pm over 10 and 14 weeks.
After completing initial training, you will be rostered to practise what you’ve learnt from your 30-40 hours of volunteering during the July school holidays.
You will then undergo an assessment as the final requirement prior to graduation.
Eligibility
To be eligible, you’ll need to be in year 11 or 12, and at least 16 years old.
All Questacon staff, volunteers and trainees are required to hold a current Working with Vulnerable People Card (WWVP).
How to apply
Nominations are now closed for 2024. Thank you for your submissions.
Want to become a Student Explainer? To be considered for this program, your school needs to submit an application on your behalf. You can't nominate yourself!
If you are interested, ask your school to send us your name and a contact phone number before the end of Term 1 2025.
Also include 50 or so words about yourself. Be sure to tell us why you're interested in Questacon, science and technology!
Things to know
Your school’s principal, science coordinator, technology coordinator and/or careers adviser will get information sheets from us in the first week of Term 1 2025.
Note that this program is for volunteer positions. Although we do sometimes hire volunteers as part of our paid staff, unfortunately we can’t guarantee this will happen.
You may also consider applying as a regular volunteer.
Find out more
To participate in the Student Training Program, ask your science coordinator, technology coordinator or careers adviser for more information.
To nominate one of your students, please call us on 02 6270 2858 or email us at volunteering@questacon.edu.au.