Powerhouse partnership
Information about the 3-year partnership between Powerhouse Parramatta and NSW Department of Education that will strengthen STEM learning.
The opening of Powerhouse Parramatta represents a once in a generation moment for the NSW Department of Education to collaborate with some of Australia’s leading cultural and educational institutions to strengthen STEM learning for students.
Through the 3-year partnership, students across NSW will participate in immersive STEM education programs that connect Powerhouse exhibitions directly with the NSW curriculum.
What can schools expect?
The museum’s programs will provide learning experiences beyond those delivered in a standard classroom. They draw on world class exhibitions, advanced technologies and the Powerhouse Collection to deepen learning and spark curiosity.
During their visit, students will explore exhibitions that include innovative technologies, flight and cultural knowledge. In STEM focussed workshops, students will participate in practical design and problem-solving activities that can extend classroom learning.
The programs in development include:
- a 3-day, 2-night experience at the Powerhouse Parramatta
- term-long, in-school STEM education programs
- special events such as student forums and expert panels
- teacher conferences and other professional learning opportunities
- day visit excursions.
The overnight experience will serve as the centrepiece, providing state-of-the-art STEM learning experiences in purpose-built education spaces, and overnight residential facilities for thousands of school students from across NSW each year.
Timeline
The Powerhouse Parramatta is due to open to the public on 7 November 2026 and school STEM education programs will start from this opening date.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to some questions about the partnership with Powerhouse Parramatta.
When will education programs be available for booking?
The Powerhouse program launch dates and booking availability will be announced via department communication channels and the Powerhouse website.
Can I pre-book or register my interest in advance?
Currently there is no facility to pre-book or register your interest. However, important updates will be announced through Staff Noticeboard, Statewide Staffrooms, and other channels.
Join the STEM Statewide Staffroom for STEM Enrichment and Powerhouse Museum updates.
You may also wish to subscribe directly to the Powerhouse mailing list.
How do I book an excursion?
Excursions can be booked directly through the Powerhouse Museum online booking portal. A link to the portal will be provided here when bookings open.
It is difficult for my school to visit Powerhouse Museum. How can my students still participate?
The STEM Enrichment team is co-designing a suite of programs that will include school term-long programs, virtual learning experiences and connections to the department’s curriculum resources.
What are the travel options for visiting Powerhouse Museum?
Schools will decide travel arrangements that best suit their context. A School Information Pack containing local information, transport access and public transport options will be available on the Powerhouse website.
How much will excursions cost?
Pricing varies by program. Detailed information will be published on the Powerhouse website prior to bookings opening.
How many students can I bring to the overnight program?
There will be serviced accommodation for 56 students.
Are the education programs linked to the curriculum?
Yes. The STEM Enrichment team is co-designing programs with the Powerhouse team to ensure strong curriculum alignment that complements and extends classroom teaching and learning.
What Stage and KLA will be the focus of Powerhouse programs?
Powerhouse learning programs will draw on the richness, range and depth of its exhibitions to deliver K–12 learning experiences focused on STEM disciplines, project-based learning and real-world problem-solving.
Who will deliver the Powerhouse education programs?
Programs will be delivered by qualified educators, based at the Powerhouse Museum.
What will students do during workshops?
The workshops will provide STEM education opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, including hands-on and project-based experiences that connect students with the Powerhouse collection and expert personnel.
How will Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples be involved in program development?
The Aboriginal Education teams within the department and the Powerhouse play a leading role in the development of education programs and visitor experiences. From the outset, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advisors are guiding the authentic integration of Cultural Knowledges and curriculum alignment into the learning programs.
Will the programs be equitable and inclusive?
Yes. The department and Powerhouse Museum have a shared commitment to equitable and inclusive opportunities and experiences so that every learner receives a high-quality education.
Are facilities and programs accessible for students with additional needs?
The Powerhouse Parramatta will provide accessible facilities and adaptable program delivery. Schools will be able to discuss specific requirements when booking.
More Information
For further reading and resources, visit:
For more information, contact:
Rod Cheal
STEM Enrichment Adviser
STEM@det.nsw.edu.au.
Last modified date
31/08/2026
Business unit contact email
Executive director
Megan Kelly
Executive director’s business unit
Teaching Learning&Student Wellbeing