Bianca Woyak is an award-winning teacher and passionate advocate for science education in Aotearoa. As a co-host of the 10 Years of NZ Astrobiology celebration, Bianca brings her deep commitment to connecting students with science in real, meaningful, and grounded ways.
Bianca’s work centres on hands-on, real-world learning where she designs innovative, place-based learning experiences that take students out of the classroom and into the natural and scientific world. Her projects range from native biodiversity restoration and ecological monitoring to space science programmes exploring the questions, “Is there life on Mars?” and “How do we navigate using the stars?” blending environmental education with astrobiology and indigenous perspectives. She works closely with community organisations, scientists, and schools to create rich, authentic learning that sparks curiosity and agency in young people.
In recognition of her impact, Bianca was awarded the Prime Minister’s Science Teacher Prize, celebrating excellence in science teaching and engagement in Aotearoa New Zealand. She is also actively involved in partnerships with Enviroschools, the Moths and Butterflies of New Zealand Trust, Field Based STEM and other environmental education groups, sharing resources and stories of action that inspire tamariki to become kaitiaki of both Earth and beyond.
Bianca believes science education should empower learners to ask big questions, think critically, and dream boldly—and that the future of astrobiology in Aotearoa starts with our tamariki.
