Register your Expression of Interest for the 2026 ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program

About the ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program

The ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program is a unique, immersive 10-day experience designed to bring together chemistry teachers from around Australia and students across Asia. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, cultural exchanges, and collaborative teaching sessions, the program aims to broaden educators' perspectives on global chemistry education. Participants will have the opportunity to explore diverse teaching methods, engage with peers, and gain valuable insights into how chemistry is taught across different cultures. The program fosters a deeper understanding of global educational practices and empowers teachers to integrate innovative, cross-cultural approaches into their own classrooms.

The ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program is an immersive 10-day experience, including travel time, designed to offer teachers an opportunity to engage in a range of educational and cultural experiences. Over the course of the program, participants will take part in five days of interactive workshops, which are collaboratively designed and delivered by all participants, ensuring a fair and balanced contribution from each educator.

The primary goal of the program is to expose teachers to diverse learning environments, teaching methods, and cultural perspectives, all of which are essential for fostering a global approach to chemistry education. By participating in this program, teachers will gain firsthand insights into the varied educational systems and student experiences from different parts of the world. They will also have the chance to engage with local educators and students, broadening their understanding of how chemistry is taught and learned in different cultural contexts.

Through these workshops and interactions, teachers will not only develop new skills and teaching strategies but also be equipped to bring a more global perspective to their own classrooms. The program aims to inspire teachers to incorporate innovative, cross-cultural elements into their chemistry lessons, allowing their students to gain a deeper understanding of the subject while connecting it to a broader, international context. By sharing and learning from one another, participants will ultimately enhance their ability to teach chemistry in ways that are relevant, engaging, and reflective of a rapidly globalising world.

This program is a unique opportunity for educators to expand their professional networks, collaborate with colleagues from around the world, and contribute to a collective vision of chemistry education that transcends borders and encourages a more interconnected, global scientific community.

Teachers applying for the program will be required to submit the following:

  • A copy of their current Working With Children Check, issued by their relevant state or territory.
  • A written reference from their school endorsing their application and confirming their suitability for participation (this program is for persons currently employed as teachers only).
  • A brief statement outlining why they believe they should be selected for the delegation.
  • A short explanation of their vision for the future of chemistry education.
  • A brief proposal outlining potential workshop content they could contribute.
  • Confirmation of whether their school participated in the International Chemistry Quiz in the previous year.
  • Confirmation of their eligibility to travel, including an up-to-date passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of their return to Australia.
  • Confirmation that they are able to participate on the specified dates and have obtained the necessary support and approval from their school to take part, if selected.

Our selection committee will carefully review all applications, with priority given to RACI Members and teachers who have actively participated in the International Chemistry Quiz (ICQ) for their school in the year preceding their application (for instance, teachers applying to attend in July 2026 should have been involved in the ICQ for their school in 2025).

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of our program. As such, we strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds, genders, ethnicities, and abilities to apply and participate.

Each year, we will select five teachers to participate in the program, along with a representative from the RACI Education & Outreach team. Out of the five spots, four will be open for teachers to apply for, while the fifth spot will be reserved for a designated RACI teacher representative, who will serve as the lead educator for the group. This lead educator will take on a key role in guiding and coordinating the educational experience, ensuring that the program runs smoothly and that all participants gain the maximum benefit from their involvement. The RACI teacher representative will also provide valuable insights and support throughout the program, leveraging their expertise in education and outreach to enhance the overall experience for both teachers and students alike.

This program is designed as a fully-funded opportunity, meaning the following costs are fully covered for participants:

  • 5-star hotel accommodation: Enjoy comfortable and luxurious lodging throughout the program.
  • Flights: Travel from your home city to the program location is included.*
  • Tours: Explore the local culture and attractions as part of the planned program itinerary.
  • Transfers: All transport between the airport, hotel, and program venues is provided.
  • Meals: All meals during the program, including special events and group dinners, are covered.
  • Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance will be provided for the duration of the trip.
  • Applicable visas: Any necessary visas for travel will be arranged and covered.

However, participants are responsible for covering any additional costs not included in the program. These may include, but are not limited to, required vaccinations, SIM cards, personal expenses, souvenirs, and any other incidental costs.

Flight Contribution Caps: Please note that flight contribution caps apply, based on reasonable economy flight costs from each Australian capital city. These caps are designed to cover the full cost of the flight for each delegate, ensuring that no out-of-pocket expenses will be incurred for flight travel. We welcome participants from all across Australia. For successful applicants living in regional areas, we will work individually with each participant to arrange transfers to the nearest capital city.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link provided at the top of this webpage. Applications sent via email or through any other means will not be considered.

Click here to enquire with our Education & Outreach team

ICQ Global Chemistry Educators Program Partner: