Due to the current restrictions related to COVID-19, we have modified and developed programs specifically for online delivery. Please see the online programs section below for more detail.
Yarra Ranges Tech School programs are co-designed with our industry, tertiary and community partners to ensure that students and teachers are exposed to real-world technologies, issues and trends. Human-Centred Design Thinking is at the centre of our program and is used to build and develop student's high-level transformative skills, including:
Communication
Teamwork
Critical Thinking
Problem Solving
Creativity & Innovation
Global Citizenship
In our programs, students will work in teams of 4 to 6 to complete the challenges. Team-based problem solving is a critical means of developing high-level transformative skills.
Online Programs
In response to the remote delivery of schooling, Yarra Ranges Tech School is offering the following programs and challenges to our partner schools. These programs contain a mix of teacher-led; self-directed and YRTS facilitated sessions that can be delivered as a whole day program or spread across multiple sessions. For more information, please contact us via
yrts-bookings@boxhill.edu.au or
03 9286 9584 .
Teachers can also access a wide range of online materials and resources via the Department of Education FUSE website:
https://fuse.education.vic.gov.au
Bees With Backpacks
Environmental Science
About This Program
This program focuses students on using design thinking principles; data analysis; RFID tracking technology; environmental science and sustainability principles to create a bee friendly environment. The student designed environment is complemented by an advertising campaign to raise community awareness of the importance of bees to the environment and society.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 5. This program will be tailored for students at level 7, 8 or 9.
Duration
This program consists of 7-9 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Urban Planning & Design
Food Production & Environmental Science
Digital Simulation
Materials Science
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
RFID Tracking & Electronics
Geographical Information Systems
Data Analytics Software
Design Software
Key Learning Aims
Investigate the importance of bees in the environment and food supply
Understand how to analyse bee data from hives to understand their movement and behavioural patterns
Research the key elements to create a bee friendly environment
Design and create a bee friendly environment for you own backyard and local community
Future Mass Transit
Sensors, Aerodynamics and Apps
About This Program
This program introduces students to a variety of innovations that could improve the transportation experience for commuters. Students are introduced to mobile app technologies, industrial design for aerodynamics and autonomous vehicle technology and provided time to build their understanding and application of each. The program concludes with teams of students using a Human Centred Design Thinking process and any or all of the technologies introduced to create a unique and innovative transport solution for a particular individual.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 7. This program will be tailored for students at level 7, 8 or 9.
Duration
This program will take between 6-8 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Industrial Design
Electronics
Programming
Transport Planning
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Coding
Sensors
3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software
App Development
Robotics
Aerodynamics
Key Learning Aims
To identify and use sensors to monitor the environment and collect data
To use design thinking methodology to ideate different solutions to a real world challenge
To understand the application of aerodynamics in industrial design
To use user interface design to create a prototype app
High Tech Hospital
Robots
About This Program
Students are introduced to robotics in hospitals, using the knowledge gained to prototype solutions that assist in improving and streamlining how the hospital functions, as well as increasing patient morale.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8.
Duration
This program will take between 3-5 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Programming
Medicine
Robotics
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Key Learning Aims
To gain the understanding of concepts on programming and flowcharts
To understand the mechanics of robots
To gain an understanding of upcoming medical technology
Start-Up in Lockdown
Entrepreneurial Opportunities During a Pandemic
About This Program
This program asks students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities that have arisen during a pandemic. Students are challenged to design a mobile app which meets the real-life needs of individuals, businesses or governments utilising Human Centred Design Thinking tools and processes.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8.
Duration
This program is variable in its duration, but as a minimum, it would require 6-7 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Mobile Computing & Communications
Digital Design
Community & Business Services
Start-ups
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Mobile Application Development
Human Centred Thinking
Key Learning Aims
Gain an understanding of how mobile Applications are created
Develop knowledge of the design and coding elements that are necessary to create a mobile Application
Apply the Human Centred Design Thinking process to solve a problem for a specific user or users
Sustainable Energy
Data Science
About This Program
This program introduces students to sustainable energy sources, energy markets, basic geographical information systems and the role of data analytics as a means to make informed decisions. Working in teams, as part of a start-up company, students are required to identify opportunities for clean, renewable energy supply identifying suitable areas within Victoria to establish solar and wind farms. Students will be required to use their analysis of wind, solar exposure, existing energy infrastructure, townships and any other relevant geographical, ethical and social impacts on their decision.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9.
Duration
This program will take between 3-5 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Sustainability & Renewables
Data Analytics
Engineering & Design of Power Plants and Associated Network Infrastructure
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Tableau Software
Big Data Analytics
Geographical Information Systems & Multi-Layered Data Visualisation
Key Learning Aims
To analyse the climate and infrastructure data
To use Tableau software to visualise and present data
To understand the key factors relating to choosing the location for renewable energy power-stations and how to select the best location based on competing technological, economic and social goals
Sustainable House
Eco-Freindly Housing Concepts
About This Program
This program provides students with the opportunity to develop their scientific, critical and creative thinking skills in order to develop an energy efficient house which meets a specific set of criteria. Students are introduced to sustainability and eco-friendly housing concepts including different building materials. Breaking into teams students use an online simulation program to track the path of the sun across any location on the globe and use their observations to modify their house design and placement to meet a variety of briefs.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8.
Duration
This program will take between 4-6 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Sustainability & Renewables
Urban Planning & Design
Digital Simulation
Materials Science
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software
Digital Simulation Software
Key Learning Aims
To understand the key factors relating to energy efficiency in house design
To understand the concepts of heat absorption, conduction and reflection
To understand the notion of embedded energy in building materials
To be able to select materials for energy efficiency, considering the materials embodied energy
To understand the use of digital simulation software and interpret its outputs to inform iterative decision making
Wearable Technology
Electronics & 3D Printing
About This Program
This program introduces students to electronics and 3D printing empowering them to use these technologies to create a design for a wearable technology, tailored to a specific audience. Students will be introduced to concepts around wearable technologies, precision manufacturing, electronics, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and design thinking before developing a digital prototype.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9.
Duration
This program will take between 6-8 one hour sessions to complete – all completed online.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Electronics
Programming
Industrial and Digital Design
Precision Manufacturing
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Sensor Design & Electronics
3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software
3D Printing
Mobile App Development
Key Learning Aims
Utilise computer-aided design software to create wearables
Understand different precision manufacturing techniques for creating various wearables
Gain an understanding of using electronics, data and precision manufacturing to create personalised solutions
Understand the application of Human Centred Design Thinking to solve a problem for a user
Multi-day Programs (2 – 3 Days)
Smart Farming
Available Term 4, Piloting Term 3
About This Program
On day one, students will tour horticulture and research sites, interacting with industry professionals and building research & empathy knowledge. From that, they will spend two days in teams, investigating and practicing techniques of different smart farming technologies. On the final date, they will present their solutions to the problem they identified on day one, demonstrating prototypes and their learning journey.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program can be on consecutive days or spread over a term.1 day for site visit2 days at Yarra Ranges Tech School
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Digital Electronics
Sustainability & Renewables
Food & Fibre
Transport & Logistics
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Sensor Design
Autonomous Vehicles
Coding
Big Data Analytics
Electronics for Internet of Things
Key Learning Aims
To understand the needs of growers and farmers to maximise production yields
To gain an understanding of farming processes currently and future opportunities
To design a smart system which collects farming data (e.g. light, temperature, moisture) and uses this information to control the growing conditions
Sustainable Housing
Available Term 1, 2021, Piloting Term 4, 2020
About This Program
Building on visits to off-the-grid housing projects and Box Hill Institute Trades and Design Faculties, students will work in teams to design & develop a sustainable house. This program introduces students to digital simulation of a house, as well as physical model building. Students analyse factors affecting solar and wind energy generation, building materials and house placement, using computer aided design and precision manufacturing techniques.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program can be on consecutive days or spread over a term.1 day for site visit2 days at Yarra Ranges Tech School
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Precision Manufacturing
Digital Electronics
Sustainability and Renewables
Urban Planning and Design
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Sustainable Buildings
Production Processes
Sensor Design
3D Computer-Aided Design Software
Digital Simulation
Key Learning Aims
To understand the key factors relating to energy efficiency in house design
To understand the concepts of heat absorption, conduction and reflection
To understand the notion of embedded energy in building materials
To be able to select materials for energy efficiency, considering the material's embodied energy
Autonomous Vehicles & Smart City
Available in 2021
About This Program
Students work in teams to assist in the development of a smart city, using Autonomous Vehicles to create and optimise transport networks. They learn about the systems and integrations which are essential to the construction of a smart city. The multi-day sessions allow time for students to develop concepts and prototypes to integrate with our existing smart city system.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program can be on consecutive days or spread over a term.1 day for site visit2 days at Yarra Ranges Tech School
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Digital Electronics
Data Analytics
Programming
Transport & Logistics
Urban Planning
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Autonomous Vehicles
Coding
Sensor Design
Systems Design
Big Data Analysis
Electronics for Internet of Things
Key Learning Aims
To gain an understanding of how to train and program Autonomous Vehicles
Collect and analyse data to make decisions using real-time sensor data
To use data to optimise vehicle traffic
Design and implement smart systems
High Tech Hospital
Available Term 1, 2021
About This Program
Students are introduced to robotics and electronics, using the knowledge gained to prototype solutions that assist in improving and streamlining how the hospital functions, as well as increasing patient morale.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8.
Duration
This program can be on consecutive days or spread over a term.Day 1 at Yarra Ranges Tech SchoolDay 2 at Yarra Ranges Tech School
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Electronics
Programming
Medicine
Robotics
Telecommunications
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Robotics
Circuitry
Coding
Electronics
Key Learning Aims
To gain the understanding of concepts on programming and flowcharts
To use electronics to prototype assistive technology
To understand the mechanics of robots
To gain an understanding of upcoming medical technology
Wearable Technology
Available Term 4
About This Program
Students are introduced to electronics, programming and precision manufacturing techniques. Using the knowledge gained, and working in teams, students design, test and prototype different ideas for wearable technology to address a user’s need.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program can be on consecutive days or spread over a term.Day 1 at Yarra Ranges Tech SchoolDay 2 at Yarra Ranges Tech School
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Electronics
Programming
Robotics
Precision Manufacturing
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Robotics
Sensor Design
Coding
Electronics
3D Printing
Computer-Aided Design Software
Key Learning Aims
To gain an understanding of programming for Human-Centred assistive technologies
Utilize computer-aided design software for designing wearables
Utilize different precision manufacturing techniques for creating prototypes
Single Day Programs
Available from when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
High Tech Hospital
Robots and Assistive Technology
About This Program
Students are introduced to robotics and electronics, using the knowledge gained to prototype solutions that assist in improving and streamlining how the hospital functions, as well as increasing patient morale.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Electronics
Programming
Medicine
Robotics
Telecommunications
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Robotics
Circuitry
Coding
Electronics
Key Learning Aims
To gain the understanding of concepts on programming and flowcharts
To use electronics to prototype assistive technology
To understand the mechanics of robots
To gain an understanding of upcoming medical technology
Insectoids
Arduino Robots and Virtual Reality
About This Program
Over two seperate subtle sessions, students work in teams to utilise sensor-based robots (session 1) and 3D virtual reality modelling (session 2) to build their solution to clearing pipes. Students investigate insects and use biomimicry concepts to develop their solutions while also focusing on sustainability, water and infrastructure management.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 8 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program consists of two seperate sessions across 2 days at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Digital Electronics
Robots
Design Technology
Virtual Reality Design
Programming
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Autonomous Vehicles
Coding
Computer-Aided Design Software
Electronics
Key Learning Aims
To gain an understanding of programming logic in Arduino
Use design software to create 3D models of insect locomotion
To gain an understanding for the use of VR in design verification
Wearable Technology
Electronics and 3D Printing
About This Program
Students are introduced to electronics, programming and precision manufacturing techniques. Using the knowledge gained, and working in teams, students design, test and prototype different ideas for wearable technology to address a user’s need.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9 and maximum of level 10.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Electronics
Programming
Robotics
Precision Manufacturing
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Robotics
Sensor Design
Coding
Electronics
3D Printing
Computer-Aided Design Software
Key Learning Aims
To gain an understanding of programming for Human-Centred assistive technologies
Utilize computer-aided design software for designing wearables
Utilize different precision manufacturing techniques for creating prototypes
Urban Farming
Simulation, Automation and Monitoring
About This Program
Students design an urban farm to solve real-world sustainability and food supply issues. Taking food and fibre as the industry context, they will explore practices relating to urban and rooftop farms, Internet of Things for urban farming, food sustainability, climate change, agribusiness and start-ups.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 7.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Precision Manufacturing
Digital Electronics
Sustainability & Renewables
Food & Fibre
Transport & Logistics
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Robotics
Autonomous Vehicles
Coding
Sensor Design
Big Data Analytics
Electronics for Internet of Things
Key Learning Aims
Implement sustainable production and marketing of food
Create, pitch and implement design ideas, processes and solutions against comprehensive criteria for success (recognising the need for sustainability)
Design solutions for sustainable agriculture using emerging technologies
Collaboratively plan, manage and pitch projects that address time, costs and risks
Game Development
Virtual Reality
About This Program
Students use industry-standard professional computer games design and development software to make a game, using inspiration from nature. Their task is to use their creativity to create game environments and pitch their ideas.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Virtual Reality
Programming
Game Design
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Coding
Computer-Aided Design Software
Key Learning Aims
To be able to navigate the Unreal Editor interface to manipulate and transform objects
To be able to create a simple Blueprint visual script to ove the main game character to the next level
To be able to design and create a 3D game level out of pre-built components
To understand how to make a simple 3D game using Unreal Engine
Autonomous Vehicles
Self Driving Cars
About This Program
In teams of 3, students train model cars to drive autonomously and participate in a debate about the future impact of self-driving cars on our society.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 7.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Digital Electronics
Data Analytics
Programming
Transport & Logistics
Urban Planning
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Autonomous Vehicles
Coding
Sensor Design
Systems Design
Big Data Analysis
Electronics for Internet of Things
Key Learning Aims
To gain an understanding of how to train and program Autonomous Vehicles
Collect and analyse data to make decisions using real-time sensor data
To use data to optimise vehicle traffic
Design and implement smart systems
Sustainable Energy
Data Science
About This Program
Students work in teams on small start-up project to identify opportunities for clean renewable energy supply. Their task is to analyse climate and infrastructure data in order to select prime locations for establishing solar and wind farms.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 9.
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Sustainability and Renewables
Programming
Data Analytics
Presentation and Pitching
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Coding
Jupyter Notebook for Data Analytics
Big Data Analytics
Key Learning Aims
To analyse the climate and infrastructure data
To use Python and Jupiter Notebooks to organise and "clean" data
To use Tableau to visualise data
To understand the key factors relating to choosing the location for renewable energy power-stations and how to select the best location based on competing goals
YRTS Introduction to Tech Design Sprint
Internet of Things and Design Thinking
About This Program
Students in team of 4 to 6 are introduced to sensors, controllers and coding in a design thinking challenge. Students use the knowledge gained to ideate, design, prototype and test different ideas to produce solutions to their identified problem. This program is designed to introduced students to YRTS Design Thinking but also to build relationships and friendships among students at the start of secondary schooling.
Victorian Curriculum Level
Minimum attainment of level 7 and maximum of level 8..
Duration
This program is 1 day at Yarra Ranges Tech School.
Industry Alignment
Students will be exposed to technologies and processes used in:
Industrial Design
Electronics
Programming
Technologies Introduced
Students will develop knowledge and skills in:
Electronics
Coding
Sensors
Computer-Aided Design Software
Key Learning Aims
To identify and use sensors to monitor the environment and collect data
To use design thinking methodology to ideate different solutions to a real world challenge
To understand the application of VR in design
