The National Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.
The challenge has been presented at schools nation wide for twenty-five years, and that’s thanks to the ongoing partnerships mentioned above, along with sponsorship and dedicated teachers and keen students.
More than 240 High School students from eight schools across the country put their Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills to the test at the national finals of The University of Newcastle’s Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) held on 31 October 2025 at NUSport at the Forum.
As Australia’s leading STEM outreach program, this year’s SEC National Finals marked 25 years since the program’s inception, during which almost half a million students have participated in SEC events.
In 2026 the challenge on the Central Coast took place on 16/17 June at St Edwards College. Gosford High School won Day One of the Challenge, and Green Point Christian College were winners on Day Two. Below are photos of volunteers and participating students of 2026.
The following video celebrates twenty-five years of the program.
