The SAEON Ndlovu Node’s annual science camp for learners is the flagship initiative in the node’s science education programme

Each year the camp provides an opportunity for specially selected grade 9-11 learners from local high schools in the Phalaborwa region to participate in the environmental science education learning experience. Learners are exposed to scientists who engage them in intensive, structured, small-scale research projects aimed at stimulating their scientific knowledge and skills and promoting teamwork.

In addition, learners are introduced to diverse careers in environmental sciences and afforded the opportunity to complete career portfolios with the objective of guiding them in setting career goals for themselves, as well as identifying their abilities and career interests. The overall objectives of the camp are to strengthen the learners’ scientific thinking by encouraging and enabling them to develop and complete their own scientific projects, and to evaluate personal skills and goals in the light of future career choices.