About Powering Potential

From 2024 onwards, we will be delivering Powering Potential in a new way – travelling to different rohe (regions) around the country. 

Powering Potential is a 3-day programme designed to connect you with working scientists and researchers, give you the opportunity to develop your skills in critical thinking and problem-solving, and plan for a potential career in research or science.

Kōrero mō Powering Potential
About Powering Potential

Powering Potential is for you if:

• you like to learn and problem-solve
• you are creative and enjoy thinking outside of the box
• you can work as part of a team
• you are a good listener and communicator
• you like to be challenged

We are looking for up to 60 emerging thinkers who will be future leaders – the people who will collaborate to find clever solutions to challenges.

Te mahere ako   
The programme

Powering Potential is a 3-day programme for students to get to know each other, and work in small teams to investigate a challenge together with incredible researchers.

Key information:

• Tauira must commit to the full 3 days of the programme.
• All costs including accommodation, food, and activities are covered.

Ngā painga     
What you will gain from attending Powering Potential

You will:

• Meet and make friends with other like-minded rangatahi.
• Get hands-on with science-related activities and visits.
• Learn more about yourself and the way you think and solve problems.
• Improve your skills such as leadership, communicating, research, planning, and teamwork.
• Meet local scientists and researchers and ask questions about their career pathways, experiences and mahi.  

It goes without saying that the power of curiosity and questioning and the ability to answer our own questions are crucial skills, both in the sciences and in life in general. 

Te paearu whakauru  
Eligibility criteria

• Year 11, 12 or 13 

Pukatono
Application

You will need:

• Permission from a parent or caregiver.
• A testimonial (verbal or written) from a teacher at your school that outlines your strengths and potential in science and technology.
• Completed application form (note: you can submit audio or video along with your written answers).  

Current status:

Applications for 2024 have now closed.

Whai muri mai     
After Powering Potential

Successful applicants are encouraged to give back to their community by sharing their experience and learnings at Powering Potential. The format is entirely up to you, but here are a few examples: 

• make a short video to share on our online platforms
• host a talk at your school 
• do an activity within your community that relates to your research topic at Powering Potential – perhaps invite your mentor too!

Whakapā mai
Contact us

If you have any pātai (questions), please contact EducationTeam@royalsociety.org.nz.