Forget about the three “Rs”.

Students at a Perth school are now changing their focus to science and technology –and engaging with robotics.

Science, technology, engineering and maths – known as STEM subjects – are said to teach people the skills and knowledge needed for 75 per cent of the fastest growing occupations.

But a Federal Government report released earlier this year found Australian students are turning away from science at alarming rates.

And unless that slide is arrested, Australia may be unable to provide the skills a future workforce desperately needs.

The National Scientific Statement found enrolments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Australian schools was at the lowest level in 20 years.

But the Robotics Club at Southern River College in Gosnells, about 20km from Perth, is hoping to turn the tide. 

Launched in 2012, the Club is already showing positive results.

"Many of the students have gone on to pursue similar interests in further study," Southern River's deputy principal Mike Erith told the ABC recently.

And it's not just the technology skills. The group meets once a week for two hours after school over two semesters.

Job market of the future

Students are given specific missions, which they have to complete through building and programming their robots.

The previous group of students came fifth in a robotics competition at Macquarie University in March, which Mr Erith said was a wonderful achievement.

"That group loved the program so much they've even come to me and told me they wanted to start their own club," he said.

The program at Southern River is facilitated through The Smith Family charity for children.

WA general manager Ian Moore said people of all backgrounds and gender should be given the opportunity to enter what is fast becoming the job market of the future.

"If we look at students in lower socio-economic backgrounds – compared to those in higher socio-economic backgrounds – there is a schooling gap in terms of performance in maths and science-related subjects when we get to Year 9 of about three years." 

The program works by first grabbing the students' imagination and also delivering a number of skills needed for further study and work in the field.