Nintendo Australia has launched an important Australian-first primary school program aimed at teaching “the basic principles of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.”
The program uses Nintendo Switch, LABO and Toy-Con and aims to give students a chance to learn and developer STEM skills from an early age. By using Labo and the Toy-Con Garage, primary school aged children will learn creativity and design skills.
The program had its first session at Strathcona Baptist Girls Grammar in Melbourne on March 20 and the images below show off its success.
Nintendo Toy-Con School
According to research conducted by the Australian Government, Department of Industry, Innovation and Science in September 2016, by 2026 “75% of jobs will require workers with STEM skills.” It’s hoped that this program helps children develop the skills that they’ll need as they mature and move into the work force.
Nintendo Toy-Con School programs will target 800 students initially.
Sarah Moran, Girl Geek Academy Co-Founder and CEO said;
Nintendo Labo is a special piece of magic that brings basic STEM educational principles to life. It’s perfect for the little learners because they can build and customise their very own STEM toys creations and bring them to life.
The clear outcome is an ignited passion and excitement for STEM at an early age in a way few other programs are able to achieve. Nintendo Labo sparks joy not only in kids but in teachers and parents too.
Nintendo Australia Managing Director Kamon Yoshimura also said of the program, “We hope our program provides children across Australia with the tools to build, explore, problem-solve and, in the process, get excited about design and technology – all while having fun.”
For more information check out the Nintendo Labo website.
