Young innovators solving real-world problems

In the exhibition’s 30th year, the NSW Education Standards Authority has partnered with the University of Technology Sydney to present this exciting exhibition of HSC graduate talent.

This year, practical lifestyle innovations for people living with disability, designs to support agricultural practices, affordable housing solutions and one-of-a-kind garment creations were among the 57 HSC projects selected.

Exemplary projects selected from 1,525 nominations include a sensory board game to support children’s social skills; a traffic light ‘ecosystem’ which improves the safety of people with disabilities; and a schoolyard sunscreen dispenser that uses solar power to display UV levels.

The students whose work is exhibited in SHAPE have been selected for their major works in HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Design and Textiles and Design.  

All school sectors are reflected in the exhibition, with a record 17 regional schools represented.

This year’s SHAPE exhibition is the largest in its history and now includes:

• a tour of university technology and design facilities, for current Year 11 and 12 students
• seminars for current Textiles and Design students
• partner-led workshops developed with the Fashion Design Studio at TAFE NSW to provide students hands-on experience with leading fashion experts
• an improved online learning experience enabling direct access to explore exhibited projects via the HSC Showcase Hub
• a special online exhibition tour led by Professor Anthony Burke, host of Grand Designs Australia.

The SHAPE exhibition will continue at UTS until 11 April. See the full list of students selected, make a booking for a school visit, or find out more by visiting the NESA HSC Showcase Hub.

NSW Education Standards Authority CEO Paul Martin said:

“The SHAPE showcase exhibition is a tribute to the problem solvers, innovators and creators found in our schools throughout the state and an inspiration for students who may be considering a Technological and Applied Studies course.

“With new seminars, workshops and special tours commencing this year, it also presents an outstanding learning opportunity for current students across a range of disciplines.

“The exhibition showcases clever problem solving, technical skill and craftmanship and I applaud the students featured and the TAS teachers who guided them.”