High Ability Program

Workshop Report: BrainSTEM Design Thinking & LEGO Workshop

Last week, high-ability students from Years 7 and 8 at St Francis Catholic College had the opportunity to participate in an engaging and hands-on workshop on Design Thinking, facilitated by Sid Verma, the founder of BrainSTEM.

The workshop introduced students to the Design Thinking framework, a structured yet creative approach to tackling complex challenges. Using this framework, students explored the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and identified both local and global community issues. Working in teams, they brainstormed, ideated, and rapidly developed creative solutions to real-world problems.

One of the most powerful components of the workshop was the LEGO prototyping session, where students brought their ideas to life through tangible models. This process allowed them to visualise solutions, think critically under time constraints, and collaborate effectively within their teams.

In one group, students selected SDG Goal 2: Zero Hunger. After identifying the issue of food affordability, they created a LEGO model that depicted a scenario involving a hungry and impoverished person living in harsh conditions. Their solution included food vans—one supported by local companies and the other by international aid—highlighting collaborative strategies to combat hunger and make food accessible to all.

Another team tackled the issue of war and conflict, visualising the destruction through broken buildings and a plane that symbolised devastation. As their solution, the students designed a supply truck filled with food and essential resources aimed at supporting victims of war. Despite having only ten minutes to create their model, the group demonstrated impressive levels of creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking under pressure.

The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable, and it was clear that the students not only enjoyed the experience but also gained valuable skills and insights. The collaborative, fast-paced environment provided a meaningful opportunity for students to explore innovation in action.

We now look forward to continuing this journey in Term 3, with the launch of a six-week mentoring program. Students will have the opportunity to further develop their ideas and expand their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors.

This workshop ignited a spark of innovation, and we can’t wait to see how our students' creativity, passion, and determination will shape the next chapter of their learning journey.