BUILDING homes with 3D printers and hacking into banking databases are a few new ways schools and governments are encouraging students to study STEM subjects.

They are tasks that show students real-world applications of maths and science theory that are also exciting.

Scots PGC STEM teacher Angela Brittain said holding a student's attention could be difficult but any time hacking was mentioned, their eyes lit up. "This year we have students involved on National Cyber Security Challenge,” she said.

The challenge involved students hacking into fake bank accounts using programming language.

"The students love the idea of getting around the cyber security, it sucks them right in and they learn so much coding in the process,” MsBrittain said.

Scots PGC recently purchased two 3D printers and MsBrittain said they were working around the clock.

Year 9-10 STEM students are currently using open-source Computer Aided Design software to build model homes as part of an environmental sustainability project.

For the project students research different materials and architectural practices to build an eco-home.

While 3D printing is not directly linked to the project, MsBrittain said watching a house take form is a reward of sorts.

"The students print the building and the roof separately and they love being able to look inside. A print might take up to five hours and they are in and out looking at the update.

"They like that they can see all their work come to life.”

Using CAD software is a second skill that is in high demand for a range of jobs.

"Being able to engage with technology and using it meaningfully, along with demonstrating you are able learn new technology, is important for our kids,” MsBrittain said.