Students across the country will learn to decipher “nature's hidden language” as the Australian Science Teachers Association announces its National Science Week Schools Theme for 2025.

The new theme, Decoding the Universe - Exploring the unknown with nature's hidden language, invites students and teachers to "delve into the mysteries of the Universe by exploring the fundamental languages of nature", with a special focus on "the groundbreaking field of quantum science".

The theme, inspired by Quantum Year, will also coincide with Australia's hosting of the 2025 International Maths Olympiad, providing an opportunity to connect foundational STEM skills with the cutting edge of deep tech.

Executive Director of ASTA, Guy Micklethwait, says the new theme reflects "a forward-thinking approach to STEM education, encouraging students to explore the unknown and decode the mysteries of our universe through the powerful lenses of science and mathematics."

"ASTA invites all educators, students and STEM enthusiasts to join in this exciting journey of discovery."

Grants of up to $500 will be available to schools to integrate the theme into their National Science Week programs, with applications opening in March 2025. ASTA will also distribute a resource book packed with information, lesson plans, experiments, and more.

Read more about Quantum Year.