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Elizabeth Stewart

from cafe worker to STEAM Coordinator/Science Outreach Coordinator/Senior Teacher
I deliver innovative STEAM education and science outreach programs
School
Beenleigh State High School
Job Level
Senior

Ask me about

  • Careers in STEM and medical research
  • Becoming a science teacher and working in education
  • How STEM skills can lead to many different career opportunities
  • Connecting with universities and real-world science projects

About me

My teaching journey began as a secondary science teacher, driven by a passion for making science engaging, relevant and accessible for all students. Alongside classroom teaching, I took on the roles of STEAM Coordinator and Science Outreach Coordinator at Beenleigh State High School, where I developed innovative, curriculum-aligned programs, built partnerships with universities and research organisations, and supported teachers to deliver authentic STEM learning experiences. These leadership opportunities strengthened my expertise in curriculum design, science communication and educational collaboration.

Today, as a SPARQ-ed Teacher at the Translational Research Institute, I combine my classroom experience with a passion for connecting students and educators to contemporary medical research through meaningful, inquiry-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity and promote future STEM pathways.

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Disciplined
  • Focused
  • Innovative
  • Logical

While teaching secondary science, I also served as STEAM Coordinator and Science Outreach Coordinator at Beenleigh State High School. In these leadership roles, I developed and delivered innovative, curriculum-aligned STEAM initiatives that connected students and teachers with authentic science experiences. I established partnerships with universities, industry and research organisations, coordinated science outreach programs and events, and supported teachers through curriculum development and professional learning. I worked to increase student engagement in science, promote STEM pathways, and create meaningful learning opportunities that extended beyond the classroom.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)
  • Bachelor of Arts (Sociology)
  • Masters of Education

Subjects

  • Chemistry
  • English
  • History
  • Legal Studies
  • Physics
  • Science

Awards

  • Peter Doherty Award 2025 - Outstanding Teacher of STEM

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Started in hospitality as a cafe worker
  2. Moved into administration at Queensland University
  3. Became a Laboratory Technician
  4. Completed teaching qualifications and became a Secondary Science Teacher
  5. Progressed into STEAM leadership and science outreach roles

My school

Beenleigh State High School is a Years 7-12 public secondary school in Logan, Queensland, committed to helping students achieve their personal best through a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school offers a broad range of academic, vocational, cultural and sporting opportunities, preparing students for success in further study, training and future careers.