22 January 2021

CoRE's Suzy Urbaniak Recognised with OAM for Service to Secondary Education

Author

Subscribe to newsletter

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Share

The CoRE Learning Foundation proudly announces that Ms. Suzanne Maree Urbaniak, Co-Founder and CoRE Lead, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her exceptional contributions to secondary education. This prestigious recognition, bestowed as part of the Australia Day honours, highlights Suzy's unwavering commitment to transforming STEM education and fostering innovation in the classroom.

Suzy's dedication to education spans over two decades, marked by pioneering initiatives and tireless advocacy for student engagement and academic excellence. As a secondary school teacher at Kent Street Senior High School, Suzy introduced the CoRE Learning Model, reshaping the landscape of STEM education and inspiring countless students to explore the wonders of science and technology.

Through her leadership at CoRE, Suzy has spearheaded initiatives that have revolutionised the learning experience for students and educators alike. Under her guidance, CoRE has expanded its reach, collaborating with 21 schools in WA and engaging over 1086 students. The Gamifying Earth Science (GES) initiative, championed by Suzy, has extended its impact to 69 schools nationally, enriching the education of 3465 students across Australia.

Suzy's contributions extend far beyond the classroom. As Chair of the Western Australian Branch of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists and President of the ANU Student Geological Society, she has been at the forefront of promoting excellence in science education and advancing opportunities for women in STEM fields.

Her accolades, including the Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching and induction into the Western Australian Women's Hall of Fame, Australian of the Year WA Local Hero underscore her profound influence and unwavering dedication to educational excellence.

As Suzy Urbaniak receives this well-deserved honour, the CoRE Learning Foundation celebrates her indelible impact on STEM education and looks forward to continuing the legacy of innovation and excellence Suzy has established.

Get in Touch

Ready to transform STEM learning?

Whether you are an educator, school, or industry partner, CoRE provides hands-on STEM programs that connect classrooms to real careers across Western Australia.

News

Stories & Updates

Stay updated with our latest news and highlights.

History in the Making at Baler Primary School

Baler Primary School becomes the first school to implement the CoRE Learning Model across every single primary school classroom, with 529 students and 23 CoRE Educators.

CoRE Alumni Spotlight: Sylvia Blakeway on Preparing for Geosciences and Industry Success

CoRE graduate Sylvia Blakeway shares how project-based learning prepared her for university studies and internships at BHP, developing essential soft skills for the resources industry.

Pit to Pixel: Bringing Real-World Digital Technologies to Year 9 Classrooms in 2026

The CoRE Learning Foundation and the WA Mining Club proudly present Pit to Pixel, a FREE, ready-to-use Digital Technologies programme incorporating the proven CoRE Learning Model.

Building Academic Confidence with the CoRE Learning Model

The CoRE Learning Model builds academic confidence and ATAR readiness through project-based STEM learning, with data showing higher WACE scores and stronger university preparation for participating students.

From the CoRE Vault: Aaron Meads' Journey into Geology

Aaron Meads went from having no clear career path in high school to becoming a Drill and Blast Engineer at Rio Tinto, shaped by hands-on CoRE field trips.

PLS and CoRE Partner to Bring STEM Learning to Port Hedland Students

We're thrilled to welcome PLS as a Eucalyptus Sponsor in Port Hedland. Their support is helping bring the 'Powering Tomorrow's Innovators: Port Hedland STEM Learning Programme' to life, giving local students access to world-class STEM education.

WASMA and CoRE Build the Next Generation of Industry Leaders

The WA School of Mines Alumni (WASMA) has returned as an In Kind sponsor of the CoRE Learning Foundation. With this renewed partnership, we're supporting more than just student learning; we're investing in the future of Western Australia's mining industry.

CoRE to Career: Sauban's Path from Hands-On Learning to Cybersecurity

From growing crystals in CoRE to placing 2nd nationally at ANSTO's Hackathon, Sauban Kidwai's journey shows how project-based learning fuels STEM careers.

Building WA's Future Workforce: CoRE Calls for Industry Support at Diggers and Dealers

CoRE Learning Foundation calls on Diggers and Dealers 2025 attendees to back its nationally recognised initiative, having grown from one school to 17 across WA.

Bellevue Gold Partners With CoRE to Invest in STEM Education in the Goldfields

Bellevue Gold partners with CoRE as a Sky Sponsor to deliver hands-on STEM education and create real-world career pathways for students in Western Australia's Goldfields region.

Mid West Wind Farm to Power CoRE Games Tour Across the Region

Mid West Wind Farm joins as Garnet Sponsor of the CoRE Games Tour, bringing hands-on STEM learning to ten schools across Western Australia's Mid West region.

CoRE to Career: Grace's Journey Towards Environmental Science and Geology

2024 graduate Grace Pring discovered her passion for environmental science and geology through three years of immersive CoRE learning at Kent Street Senior High School.

CoRE to Career: Edvinder’s Role in Shaping Geology, Engineering, and Innovation

When Edvinder Singh first joined the CoRE Programme, he never imagined it would introduce him to a career path he hadn’t previously considered. Today, he is an engineering geologist, working at the...

Pilbara CoRE Academy: Creating STEM Pathways in the Resources Industry

The Pilbara CoRE Academy launches at Tom Price Senior High School, providing Year 11 and 12 students with immersive STEM learning, industry mentoring, and pathways into the resources sector.

CoRE to Career: Lee-an's Inspiring Journey

Lee-an Lu went from creating the CoRE logo in Year 10 to becoming a professional geologist at Gold Fields, showcasing the transformative power of immersive STEM education.

A Year of CoRE STEM Learning at Merredin College

At Merredin College, the CoRE Learning Programme is redefining STEM education through a dynamic, hands-on approach that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. This forward-thinking model connects students with real-world industry experiences.

Iluka Resources Partners with CoRE to Boost STEM Education in Geraldton

Iluka Resources joins CoRE as a Sky sponsor, launching the Geraldton programme to bring immersive STEM education to Geraldton Senior High School.

YMP Inaugural Gala Dinner: Celebrating STEM Learning

On October 26th, 126 enthusiastic professionals from the mining and resources industry gathered at the QT Hotel Perth for the Young Mining Professionals (YMP) Perth Inaugural Gala Dinner. This event brought together some of the brightest minds in the sector for a sensational evening of networking, celebration, and philanthropy, with proceeds benefiting the CoRE Learning Foundation.

How CoRE is Empowering Young Women to Become STEM Leaders

CoRE's immersive learning experiences are breaking down gender barriers in STEM, empowering young women to pursue careers in the resources sector.

Pantoro Partners with CoRE to Boost STEM Education in Norseman

We are excited to announce that Pantoro, a WA-based gold producer, has joined CoRE Learning as a Garnet sponsor. This partnership will deliver immersive STEM education to Norseman students, bringing hands-on learning experiences to the Goldfields region.

CoRE Pilbara Academy Regional Pilot Secures Support from Curtin University Trailblazer Programme

CoRE has secured funding through Curtin University's Trailblazer Programme to deliver the CoRE Pilbara Academy Regional Pilot in Tom Price for Year 11-12 students.

Engaging Future Mining Leaders at Curtin WA School of Mines Open Day

CoRE participated in the Curtin WA School of Mines Open Day, connecting with students, educators and industry professionals to promote STEM careers in mining.

Argonaut Limited Partners with CoRE to Transform STEM Learning

Argonaut Limited joins CoRE Learning Foundation as a Eucalyptus sponsor, investing in immersive field trips and project-based STEM learning across Metro and Goldfields WA.

BHP Renews Sponsorship to Empower CoRE Students

BHP has renewed its Eucalyptus sponsorship with CoRE Learning Foundation, supporting STEM education initiatives and the Gamifying Earth Science programme at Baler Primary School in Port Hedland.

The CoRE Journey: Transforming STEM Learning

Students at Tom Price Senior High School share how the CoRE Learning Model has transformed their engagement, confidence and academic performance over multiple years.

A STEM Teaching Guide | Hydrogen Production

A STEM teaching guide exploring hydrogen production in Western Australia, funded by the WA Government, designed to help students understand hydrogen and its future role.

Chevron's Commitment to STEM Education

Chevron Australia partners with CoRE Learning Foundation to invest in the next generation of STEM problem solvers through project-based learning and industry mentorship.

IGO Limited and CoRE Continue Impactful Partnership

IGO Limited continues its support for CoRE Learning Foundation in 2024, bridging education and industry through hands-on STEM projects and graduate mentoring programmes.

CoRE to Career: Denzyl Moncrieff's Journey in Geology

Empowering Future Leaders in STEM. In the realm of STEM education and career development, real-world experiences and industry engagement are invaluable. The CoRE Learning Foundation, through its innovative approach, is shaping the next generation of geoscience professionals.

CoRE and Get Into Resources: Inspiring the Next Generation

CoRE partnered with Get Into Resources (GIR) at TAFE to showcase diverse career opportunities in the resources sector to Year 10 students through hands-on STEM activities.

Australian Institute of Geoscientists Partners with CoRE

The Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) partners with CoRE as a Garnet sponsor to expand the Gamifying Earth Sciences initiative across NSW schools.

Old as Dirt gets its biggest update yet!

Old as Dirt has received its biggest update yet, including a new Teacher Training mode, web-based platform, simplified joining system, and email sign-in.

Thomson Geer Partners With CoRE

The CoRE Learning Foundation is excited to announce Thomson Geer (TG) as our newest In Kind sponsor. TG's support will help us deliver the CoRE Learning Model and Gamifying Earth Sciences to more young Australians.

James Fox: From CoRE to Career

James Fox went from CoRE classroom to Graduate Mining Engineer at IGO, proving the power of immersive field trips and hands-on learning in shaping STEM careers.

Delta Lithium Inspiring Future Mining Leaders through Educational Games

Through Delta Lithium's Garnet sponsorship, CoRE is expanding its Gamifying Earth Science initiative in the Goldfields region to inspire the next generation of mining professionals.

Ramelius Resources: Empowering Education in Western Australia

Ramelius Resources, a prominent Western Australian gold producer listed on the ASX since 2003, supports STEM education and community development in the Wheatbelt region through its Eucalyptus sponsorship of CoRE.

Sandvik Renews Sponsorship with CoRE Learning Foundation

Sandvik, a leader in the mining industry, has reaffirmed its partnership with the CoRE Learning Foundation by renewing its sponsorship. This commitment reflects Sandvik's dedication to advancing STEM education and building the next generation of mining professionals.

The Australian Geoscience Council: Empowering Future Geoscientists

The Australian Geoscience Council renews its partnership with CoRE to promote Earth Sciences and inspire future geoscience careers through STEM education.

Exploring Real-World Career Paths

Mitchell Byrne's journey from CoRE student to working underground while studying mining engineering at WASM shows the real-world impact of immersive STEM education.

Denver Gold Group Partners with CoRE to Promote Mining Careers

CoRE and Denver Gold Group have partnered to advocate for the social value of mining and foster interest in careers within the mineral extraction and processing sectors.

Future Proofing Career Pathways: Lucy Howe's Journey

Lucy Howe's journey from CoRE at Kent Street to an Honours project with IGO Ltd demonstrates the powerful link between immersive STEM education and industry careers.

CoRE's Kate Driver Appointed CEO of IPAA ACT

CoRE co-founder and board member Kate Driver has been appointed CEO of IPAA ACT and Executive Director of IPAA National.

Addressing the Talent Gap: CoRE's Innovative Approach to STEM Education

The mining industry faces a looming talent shortage. CoRE Learning Foundation is pioneering innovative approaches to STEM education through Project-Based Learning and industry partnerships, preparing the next generation for careers in resources.

Suzy Urbaniak's Journey to Transform STEM Education | WIRA 2024

Suzy Urbaniak nominated for the 2024 Women In Resources Awards by CME, recognising her pioneering efforts in advancing STEM education through the CoRE Learning Model.

Bridging Education to Industry: Eamon Pascoe's CoRE Journey

Eamon Pascoe's journey from Kent Street SHS to BHP Graduate Environment Advisor showcases the transformative impact of CoRE's hands-on Learning Model in bridging education and industry.

Gold Fields Partners with CoRE to Empower STEM Education in the Goldfields

Gold Fields joins CoRE as a Sky Sponsor in 2023, supporting STEM education expansion in the Goldfields region.

CoRE's Suzy Urbaniak Recognised with OAM for Service to Secondary Education

CoRE Learning Foundation Co-Founder and Lead Educator Suzy Urbaniak has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her exceptional service to secondary education.

CoRE Learning Foundation Marks 5 Years of Excellence in STEM Education

CoRE Learning Foundation celebrates its 5th anniversary, marking five years of transforming STEM education across 69 schools nationally with immersive learning experiences and the Gamifying Earth Science initiative.

Suzy Urbaniak: 2024 Finalist Women In Resources Awards

We are proud to announce Suzy Urbaniak, CoRE's Lead, is a finalist in the 2024 Women In Resources Awards by the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME). Suzy's recognition showcases...

CoRE Partners with CSIRO: Powering STEM Excellence in Australia

CoRE Learning Foundation partners with CSIRO as a Garnet Sponsor to expand the Gamifying Earth Science initiative and CoRE Learning Model, driving STEM excellence across Australia.

Mars Buttfield-Addison Receives STEM Communicator of the Year Award

Mars Buttfield-Addison has been recognised as Tasmanian STEM Communicator of the Year for her work developing CoRE's Resource Rescue and Respond Minecraft game.

CoRE's Lead Educator Suzy Urbaniak on 'Between Our Pages' a Premiers Reading Challenge Podcast

CoRE's Lead Educator Suzy Urbaniak features on the Premier's Reading Challenge WA podcast 'Between Our Pages', discussing her Aussie STEM Stars book and the importance of real-world learning.

2023 Welcomes 3 new CoRE Schools!

CoRE celebrates its 5th year by welcoming Koorda Primary School, Beacon Primary School and Trayning Primary School as new CoRE Schools.

18 months of Gamifying Earth Science Learning

CoRE's Gamifying Earth Science initiative has grown to 90 classrooms across 55 schools, teaching more than 1500 students nationwide in just 18 months.

The Latest Aussie STEM Stars book - Suzy Urbaniak: Volcano Hunter and STEAM Warrior is OUT NOW!

The latest Aussie STEM Stars book featuring CoRE Founder Suzy Urbaniak is now available. All proceeds go back into making CoRE even better for students.

Pit to Pixel Semester 2 has Officially Begun!

Step into our Drill Down Day at Christ Church Grammar School and Guilford Grammar School, and you will see an immediate shift in how Digital Technologies is delivered. Designed by the CoRE Learning Foundation in partnership with the WA Mining Club, the Pit to Pixel program kicked off its second semester in the city with an intensive, hands-on Drill Down Day. The initiative aims to bridge high school Digital Tech learning with the modern resources sector by turning raw, operational data into insightful decision-making.

Neil Brodie Joins the CoRE Learning Foundation

Pit to Pixel: Connecting Modern Mining to Digital Technologies Classrooms in 2027