Polar Marine Ecologist Visit- Westbourne College

Dr Rebecca Duncan, a Polar Marine Ecologist, was invited by IB Diploma Programme 2 students, Mia Rae and Audrey Savage,  in celebration of 2025 International Women in STEM. She shared a wealth of research experience in Antarctica with all of Westbourne students from Year 10 – 12.

“Dr Duncan, led us through her STEM pathway, including the various different opportunities she took as well as the many challenges she faced, especially as a woman in this industry. She was an inspiration to many of us, highlighting the importance of perseverance with STEM and the opportunities available, as a woman in a male-dominated field.” said Audrey, DP2.

Rebecca explained to students how her career as a researcher unfolded through an unexpected journey, demonstrating why it is worthwhile to take risks and seize opportunities as they arise. She continued with explaining the research she is currently undertaking with colleagues, which involves continuous months and various sample collections over time to monitor the state of the environment and ecosystem in Antarctica.

She also detailed how the research is only possible through the collaboration of others. On the field, she highlighted the importance of care for each other amongst the cold elements – addition to keeping a watchful eye for polar bears – and off the field, how her research is possible with gratitude to those funding the expeditions.

Dr Rebecca Duncan is the latest guest speaker to bring real world experience into College as part of the exclusive Guest Speaker Programme, a programme held at all campuses of Westbourne International in Sydney, UK and Singapore. Real world exposure before leaving high school reinforces traits of the IB Learner Profile with Westbourne students learning how to be resilient, to take risks, to collaborate as they prepare to be the world’s future leaders in STEM and business.