From dark skies to award-winning projects

Bray Park State High School teacher Jen McDougall’s astronomy nights are igniting student curiosity about space and physics.

Through projects like building space insulation and designing human colonies, Jen turns physics into an exciting subject for her students.

Her mentorship had led to award-winning projects, such as the City of Moreton Bay Telstra Innovation Awards, showing how this approach nurtures future STEM leaders.

On World Teacher’s Day (October 25) is also highlights the great work of state school teachers who go above and beyond to ensure students can succeed.

“We had kids who’d never looked through a telescope, looking at stars and seeing the rings of Saturn,” said Jen.

“Watching students and their families connect with the universe, seeing their excitement – it’s what makes this all worthwhile.”

For Jen, her passion for space and science goes beyond organising events – it’s about igniting a lifelong love of learning in her students.

As a physics teacher, she’s made it her mission to show students that science isn’t just challenging – it’s fascinating, rewarding and fun.

“I want them to feel that thrill of discovery. Not just to learn science but to experience it,” she said.

Her enthusiasm has resonated with her students, many of whom have participated in Bray SHS’s innovative STEM program, where they’ve worked on projects ranging from space insulation to designing human colonies for Mars.

Through hands-on activities and creative problem-solving, Jen has created a classroom environment where students aren’t just learning but leading their own discoveries.

“I give them challenges that push their thinking and encourage them to be curious. It’s not about giving them the answers, but about letting them explore and find solutions themselves,” she said.

“I love seeing that spark in their eyes when they figure something out independently.”

Recently, Jen’s Year 9 students took home top honours at the City of Moreton Bay Telstra Innovation Awards for their creative solutions to real-world problems.

“I’m so proud of what they’ve achieved. They’ve worked incredibly hard, and to see their passion match mine is the best reward I could ask for,” Jen said.

For more information about how QLD Education is celebrating teachers for World Teachers’ Day, visit worldteachersday.com.au