Approved Specialist Engineering Program

Governor Stirling Senior High School

Approved Specialist Engineering Program

Governor Stirling Senior High School is Western Australia’s specialist engineering school. Students will be taught by highly skilled teachers and industry experts and engage in real life engineering projects, workshops and competitions.

Students will be equipped with skills they need to pursue a range of careers in engineering such as electrical, mechanical, chemical, environmental and civil engineering.

The Approved Specialist Program in Engineering is delivered with support from the University of Western Australia, and offers students:

  • Practical, insider knowledge and guidance from specialist teachers and industry experts to help students develop job ready skills.
  • Links to tertiary and industry bodies offer university pathways, scholarships, traineeships, and access to future training opportunities.
  • Excursions and participation in real life projects, competitions and exhibitions to inspire students to turn their skills into a career.

In Year 7, the Specialist Engineering Program is offered as an academic stream. This stream prepares students for university entrance. Our Specialist Engineering Program is also offered as a Vocational program stream in the later years.  This stream provides nationally recognised certification in a range of engineering related industries in preparation for future education or training.

Engineering Specialist Program Coordinator Bio

David Scuderi is the Head of Department for Technologies, at Governor Stirling Senior High School, the program coordinator for the school’s Specialist Engineering Program and a Level 3 classroom teacher. A recognized leader in education, David has received the Leadership in Technology Education Award and the Excellence in Engineering Related Subjects Award from Engineers Australia. He is also an accomplished curriculum writer and has secured numerous Education Grants to enhance learning opportunities.

Under his leadership, the Specialist Engineering Program has delivered innovative projects such as:
• Solar-Powered Vehicle Design – Students design and build functional solar cars.
• Bridge-Building Challenge – Applying civil engineering principles to create load-bearing structures tested under real conditions.
• Robotics and Automation Systems – Developing autonomous robots for practical problem-solving and coding integration.
• Renewable Energy Systems – Designing wind and hydro prototypes to explore sustainable energy solutions.
• CAD and 3D Printing Projects – Using advanced design software and additive manufacturing to produce engineering components.

David’s work reflects a strong commitment to innovation in STEM education and fostering future-ready skills in students.

Entry Requirements

Entry into the Specialist Program is through a selection process. Students apply directly to the school, you can do so through the online form below. Please provide a copy of the student’s most recent school report and Year 5 NAPLAN results along with any other certificates of achievements and a letter of reference from your Year 6 teacher. Students apply the previous year for entry in the following year (Year 6 for entry in Year 7). Year 5 students may also register their interest.

 

Limited places are still available. Testing for round 2 is now open. Applicants are to complete a selection test on Thursday, 27 August 2026, at 9.00am (approximately one hour duration). Register prior to this date to apply. Students will be notified of the outcome of their test via email. Students who successfully complete the selection test go on to do an interview.

To receive information about future places, contact the school on (08) 6274 0300.

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