The University of Otago is this week hosting about 55 pupils and 34 teachers from rural and provincial secondary schools as part of its second intake of advanced science academy recruits.
Catlins Area School pupil Reuben McLay was among a group of 15 pupils who were studying pest control research at a laboratory session at the university Zoology Department, yesterday.
A general interest in animals alongside the field of physics had been encouraged by his science teacher, which in turn led to him being included in the 2012 academy intake.
Reuben said there was a diverse range of projects being studied at the week-long camp, which will be carried on through the year as part of their curriculum at school.
"Everyone here knows a lot. There are a lot of programmes to do and we will also keep in touch through online study through the year," he said.
The Government provided $600,000 in 2010 to fund the two-year pilot scheme, which involves university staff working with year 13 science pupils and teachers from smaller and less well-resourced schools.
Academy director Steve Broni said the 55 secondary school pupils had been selected on the basis of their academic aptitude and their potential to excel in year 13 science curriculum subjects.
The intake will take part in a second week-long camp at the university in July, he said.
Projects undertaken as part of their studies include the core fields of physics, chemistry and biology as well as biochemistry, genetics, marine science, zoology and mathematics, he said.
"A key goal of the academy is developing new skills, critical thinking and building confidence to enhance the student's ability to excel in their final year science [subjects]," Mr Broni said.
Computer science, geography, surveying, clothing and textile sciences, and psychology are included in study topics.
A key element of the academy is to bolster techniques to ensure the communication of science is broadened to a wider audience.
"An ability to communicate science not only to scientific peers but to public and non-specialist audience is a crucial skill for the 21st century scientist. To do that you need first to understand the nature of science," Mr Broni said.
Pupils, teachers, and university staff regularly keep in touch through the year via an online science community network.
A teacher professional development component is built into the academy, with 34 teachers from each of the participating schools attending professional development workshops during the camp, he said.
