Eight schools competed in a series of science and engineering-based challenges yesterday that were designed to test their problem-solving skills, and inspire them to consider STEM subjects for their senior years.

The program also aims to expose students to what careers in science, technology, engineering or mathematics can offer them.

The program was founded by the University of Newcastle in 2000 and is a joint venture with Rotary clubs, local businesses, local governments, universities and communities.

"It's so much more interesting," said Southern Highlands Christian School student Harry Salgeant.

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"I have always had a passion for physics, but this has made me want to do it more."

Chevalier High School student Sheridan Connelly also reaped the benefits from the day.

"It's good to know how much you can do, with the knowledge and stuff you have," she said.

The event was hosted by the Rotary Club of Bowral-Mittagong and the University of Newcastle, with volunteers from the club, Engineers Australia, the Inner Wheel of the Southern Highlands and the Bowral Uniting Church present throughout the day.

University of Newcastle representative, and mechatronics and aerospace engineer student Sean Gilhooly said the day provided students all the disciplines of engineering.

"The experience gave students glimpses of what engineering is like," he said.

"It's really hard to explain what engineering is like."

Students submitted their approaches to each challenge throughout the day, which were then judged and scored for their design and efficiency.

Students also designed, and constructed load-bearing bridges that were required to handle various weights being run over them without collapsing.

All the schools came together at the end of the day to test the strength of their bridges, which were critiqued by three judges.

Some bridges buckled and snapped, and some eventually caved with the gradual addition of heavier weights.

Frensham ranked first at the end of the day, and received $1000 from the Rotary Club of Bowral-Mittagong for transport to the state competition in Newcastle.

The college was also awarded a trophy and a careers workshop from the Atlassian Foundation.

The Rotary Club of Bowral-Mittagong has brought the event to schools in the Highlands and Tablelands since 2008.

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