In this episode, Stephen Anderson sits down with Emmanuelle Buecher Hall, a science teacher at Mansfield State High School in Brisbane. A former marine biologist who’s researched jellyfish in South Africa and sailed the world with her family, Emmanuelle now brings real scientists into her school to spark curiosity in students. Stephen first heard her speak at the Future of Education Conference, then organized a trip for his Nanango students to attend one of her after-school science talks—a trip that left a lasting impression. We dive into her journey, her innovative incursions program, and how she’s inspiring the next generation of scientists, one curious mind at a time.
Key Topics Discussed
From Marine Biology to the Classroom
Emmanuelle shares her winding path—from studying jellyfish in Cape Town to teaching science in Brisbane—proving it’s never a straight line to inspiring students.
Scientists in School: The Incursions Program
Learn how Emmanuelle invites scientists—over 50 in five years!—to Mansfield for informal talks on topics from volcanoes to quantum physics, open to all curious students.
Beyond the Curriculum: Fostering Curiosity
Forget marks—this is about passion. Emmanuelle explains how real-world science exposure helps students discover what they love, no textbook required.
Tips for Teachers: Starting Your Own Program
Emmanuelle offers practical advice on reaching out to scientists and adapting her model for other schools or subjects—like tech or engineering.
A Regional Road Trip to Brisbane
Stephen reflects on bringing Nanango students to Mansfield and how regional schools can tap into this big-city science buzz.
Links and Resources:
• Mansfield State High School: www.mansfieldshs.eq.edu.au (Check for school programs and events)
• Contact Emmanuelle Buecher Hall: Via School Website
• Future of Education Conference: https://www.thefutureofeducationsummit.com/
• DATTA Queensland: www.dattaqld.org.au
Connect With Us:
● Host: Stephen Anderson – podcast@dattaqld.org.au (mailto:podcast@dattaqld.org.au)
About the Bridge Building Podcast
“This is the place where we dissect and then discover the many ways ITD teachers all over this country are using their passion to create passionate students. We talk of measuring and manipulating a multitude of materials of design and divergent thought, of creation with our minds and with our hands. And most of all, we talk of growing great young people because of course that is what we do.”
So what does that mean other than I like to show off my alliteration skills? Since coming back to teaching a few years ago the thing that strikes me most, and frankly scared me most is how lonely this job is. How little we know about what is happening in our subject area. The classroom next door, a class in the next school, let alone the next town are a mystery to me. I know there are teachers out there doing incredible things and this (the podcast) is a way for me to find out and be inspired. I would like to invite you along to listen and learn, to be inspired by some of the sensational teachers I speak to on the “Bridge Building Podcast – from technology to the trades”
About the Podcast Host
Stephen Anderson is a Design Technology, Trade Training and accidental Science teacher at a small high school 2 hours North West of Brisbane.
Over To You
If you know someone who is doing something spectacular or just great fun in design and tech or in trade training, I would love to know about them.
Contact me through my email osaerial@gmail.com
Music by:
Viola Pink
My favourite busker from the Nanango markets.