PLC Sydney is delighted to announce that Keira (Year 3) , has won the top national prize in the primary school division of the 2025 University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize . Her clever and engaging short film, Dusty’s Mitey Poo , explored the fascinating (and slightly itchy) world of dust mites, revealing their role as allergens and sharing inventive ways to reduce their presence in our homes.
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki and Keira (Year 3), winner of the 2025 University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize - Primary.
Keira’s work built on the scientific experiments from her Young Scientist project , which earlier this year earned her the Best Scientific Investigation in NSW (K–2) . Her success demonstrates how curiosity, creativity, and scientific thinking can combine to communicate big ideas in fun, accessible ways.The concert opened with a striking massed performance involving all string players across the College, before moving to our youngest ensembles, Evandale Strings and Junior Orchestra . These performances demonstrated the enthusiasm and dedication of students beginning their musical journey, reflecting the strength of the school’s early music education program.
Adam Spencer, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, Professor Marcel Dinger and Keira (Year 3).
About the Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize
Sponsored by the University of Sydney , the Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize encourages students to explain scientific concepts in ways that are entertaining, informative, and engaging . Inspired by patrons Dr Karl and Adam Spencer’s motto, “learn something without even noticing”, the prize nurtures the next generation of scientists and science communicators.
PLC Sydney has proudly participated in this national competition since 2013, producing a long list of winners and finalists over the years. You can view our students’ past winning entries here.
Adam Spencer, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, Professor Marcel Dinger and Keira (Year 3).
Innovation and Science at PLC Sydney
Keira’s win highlights the strength of PLC Sydney’s enquiry-based learning and the expertise of our specialist Science and Technology teachers. With the introduction of the new K–6 Science and Technology Syllabus, students are encouraged to trial, test, and refine their ideas, developing innovative solutions to real-world problems.
At the heart of this learning is our Junior School Innovation Lab , a flexible space designed to inspire creativity and hands-on experimentation. Here, students can code, create, and innovate using robotics, electronics, and design tools. Portable whiteboard tables, inventor toolboxes, and dedicated maker zones encourage exploration and collaborative problem-solving.
In 2018, the College opened its Gateway Project development , which includes specialist Innovation Labs, an Invertebrate House, Turtle Pond, food gardens, and even a native bee hotel, designed to foster hands-on, curiosity-driven learning. As Principal Dr Paul Burgis explains:
“We don’t just follow trends at PLC Sydney, we want to lead in education. Our facilities and philosophy reflect our commitment to innovation, creativity, and equipping students with the skills they need for the future.”
Mr Scott Gregory (Technology, eLearning and Innovation Leader), Mrs Annie Martin (Junior School Science Coordinator), Dr Paul Burgis (Principal), Mrs Melissa Watters (Head of Junior School) and Keira (Year 3).
Specialist teachers, real-world learning
Our students are guided by passionate Junior School teachers, including Mrs Annie Martin ( Junior School Science Coordinator), and Mr Scott Gregory (Technology, eLearning and Innovation Leader) who mentor students through projects like Sleek Geeks. Weekly workshops provide opportunities for students to refine their science investigations, experiment with film techniques, and develop communication skills.
This personalised approach has produced many award-winning projects over the years.
Mrs Annie Martin (Junior School Science Coordinator), Angela Low (Frecker, Class of 1963), Keira (Year 3), Professor Kathy Belov (Class of 1991), Dr Paul Burgis (Principal), Mrs Melissa Watters (Head of Junior School).
Inspiring the next generation
At PLC Sydney, Science and Technology programs are designed to open the door to discovery for even our youngest learners. Whether through film competitions, robotics challenges, or hands-on experiments in our Innovation Lab, our students are encouraged to see the world with curiosity, and the confidence to ask “what if?”
Keira’s win is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the innovative programs, expert teaching, and culture of creativity that make PLC Sydney a leader in Junior School Science education.