Thomas Oliphant | Head of Technology and Enterprise
St John's Grammar School

Thomas is a passionate, innovative, and experienced educator specialising in robotics, programming, and advanced technologies. Thomas takes pride in exposing his students to new and emerging technologies, future STEM pathways and authentic learning experiences.

He is best known for his role in inspiring the success of a number of South Australian robotics teams who have represented Australia in the 2020, 2021 and 2022 Vex Robotics World Championships.

Thomas has more than 10 years’ experience in advanced technologies education and promoting STEM problem-based learning, sharing his passion through mentoring both teachers and undergraduate teachers. He continues to develop engaging learning programs that stretch learners into developing the skills and independence required to thrive in a technological future.

Thomas was a finalist in the 2020 and 2021 South Australian STEM Teacher of the Year Awards and was also named Australian VEX Robotics Teacher of the Year in 2021.

Appearances:

Day 2 @ 12:00

VEX Breakout Session - The Robotics Journey. Creative and innovative approaches to scaling STEM? robotics in F-12 curriculum, cocurricular competition and community

Hear from a panel of educators speak about their experience creating and implementing new robotics curriculum, commencing, and scaling cocurricular robotics, and engaging their network of schools or broader community to become involved in this exciting and rapidly growing area. Understand the ‘pain points’, resourcing needed and managing expectations for growth within your school. You will also learn about the free training, support, and resources available, and how you can join a vibrant professional learning community of enthusiastic STEM robotics educators! Bring the excitement of robotics to students in your school!

Maree Timms, Science & Maths Teacher, Galen Catholic College