Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence

The Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence (CCASE) resides on Darkinjung Country, respectfully acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land. Operating across multiple Principal Networks. Supporting over 60 schools and collaborating with over 900 teachers, to provide engaging STEM opportunities to more than 16,000 students since its establishment in 2020.

CCASE plays a key role in delivering the Virtual STEM Academy (VSA), providing students in the regiona and across NSW with access to high-quality, online STEM learning experiences. This program helped bridge geographic barriers and ensured equitable access to advanced STEM education.

Our work has been highlighted at state and regional conferences, where we have shared insights on STEM pedagogy, teacher development, and student engagement. These presentations have contributed to the broader conversation on best practices in STEM education.

CCASE is committed to fostering strong partnerships within the educational community and cultivating local industry relations in the fields of Food, Health, and Agriculture. Our focus is on creating innovative curriculum delivery methods that enhance teacher confidence, improve student ability in STEM, and inspire their aspirations for future careers in STEM fields. We aim to maintain and further develop these partnerships to ensure impactful and engaging STEM education experiences for all.

We pride ourselves on strong links with the University of Newcastle and TAFE NSW as well as Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre and the Regional Education Industry Partnerships (REIP) program to link our students with industry in meaningful ways.

The Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence (CCASE) is committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving in STEM education. Through strategic partnerships and groundbreaking initiatives, we empower students and educators with engaging, future-focused learning experiences. 

Awards and recognition

• The STEM Project Officer, Nikyetta Pencheff in 2022 received the NSW Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence that acknowledges the establishment of sustainable professional learning communities, improving learning outcomes and engagement for all students in STEM.
• Parliamentary Recognition Statement delivered in Parliament by Adam Crouch Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, recognising strong contributions to teaching excellence in Public Education and dedication to innovative STEM focused education across the Central Coast, NSW.
• 2023 received NSW Local Government Excellence Award for community development population over 150,000, for collaborations in developing and delivering Fire-ED Up – Bushfire Resilience Program.

SARAH OSMAN

Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence

Contact: ccase@det.nsw.edu.au

Sarah holds a Master’s in Primary Education from Western Sydney University and has been an educator with the Department of Education for over 15 years. As an experienced Assistant Principal specialising in curriculum implementation, she has led whole-school approaches to STEM education, fostering cross-curricular connections and inquiry-based learning.

Throughout her career, Sarah has been instrumental in supporting teachers to design and implement engaging STEM programs that drive student achievement across K–12. She is passionate about building teacher capacity, integrating innovative pedagogies, and creating real-world learning experiences that inspire students to explore STEM pathways.

Now based on the Central Coast, Sarah is dedicated to delivering high-quality professional learning, facilitating school-industry partnerships, and ensuring all students have access to meaningful STEM opportunities. Her commitment to excellence and collaboration ensures that teachers and students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in an ever-evolving world.