The girls in Maths, Science and Technology Summer School, to be held at CQU Rockhampton in February, has received huge interest attracting about 80 applications from throughout Central Queensland. The summer school caters for 32 girls who are entering year 10 in 2004. Accepted girls will receive their acceptance letter in the mail within the week.

The school aims to provide the girls with the chance to explore alternative career options.

The summer school is funded by Education Queensland and CQU – this includes all travel, accommodation, meals and activity costs. The University’s residential college, Capricorn College, will provide accommodation and meals.

Coordinator Sheila Jeffery said the aim of the Summer School was to encourage girls throughout Central Queensland to continue their interest in mathematics, science and technology into years 11 and 12 and beyond, thus keeping their options open for future career pathways.

The Summer School will provide interesting and stimulating experiences in the fields of mathematics, science, technology and engineering. The program will include excursions, presentations by key women and team activities.

“We hope to provide these girls with alternative career options – some may not be traditional female roles. We also hope to build the girls’ confidence,” Ms Jeffery said.