Language Challenges

Students at our College have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of Language Challenges across Japanese, French and Chinese. These programs include annual state and international competitions in speaking, poetry recitation, reading comprehension, calligraphy, poster design and cultural performance. Open to students from primary through to senior years, these events encourage learners to extend their language skills beyond the classroom, showcase their abilities in authentic contexts, and engage with the cultural richness of each language. Together, these challenges provide meaningful academic extension and inspire students to pursue excellence in […]

Readers’ Cup

Readers’ Cup is an academic extension program that promotes a love of reading and supports the College’s Year 5–10 literacy program. Teams of four to six students read a set of six texts, complete a quiz, and present a creative response—Primary teams respond to one text, while Secondary teams respond to three or more, following rules similar to Tournament of Minds. The competition in northern Tasmania is run by the Australian School Libraries Association in partnership with the Children’s Book Council of Australia, and is open to students in Years 5–6 […]

Ethics Olympiad

An Ethics Olympiad is a collaborative event where students analyze real-life ethical cases and discuss them respectfully, developing critical thinking, clear communication, and an appreciation for diverse viewpoints in a supportive, competitive environment.

Year Level: Year 9 – 10

Tournament of the Minds

Tournament of the Minds is an academic enrichment activity that challenges students’ critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through competitive and inquiry-based learning experiences.

Year Level: Year 7 – 10

Public Speaking

Public Speaking is a dynamic co-curricular program designed to help students build confidence, sharpen communication skills, and develop their unique voice. Through engaging lunchtime workshops and practice sessions, students learn how to structure speeches, connect with an audience, and present ideas with clarity and conviction. This program also opens doors to exciting opportunities beyond the classroom. Students can represent the school in prestigious competitions such as: Lions Youth of the Year – showcasing leadership, general knowledge, and public speaking ability. Rostrum Voice of Youth – encouraging young people to speak out […]

Subject-Specific Competitions

The College offers students the opportunity to participate in a wide range of academic competitions. Whether it’s language contests, mathematics or science challenges, there is something to inspire and extend every learner.

Year Level: Year 7 – 12

Debating

Debating at Scotch Oakburn fosters critical thinking, confidence, and teamwork. Students engage in inter-school competitions, Parliamentary Shield, and House Debating. With coaching, adjudication, and leadership opportunities, the program builds persuasive communication skills and encourages respectful discourse across year levels.

Year Level: Year 7 – 12

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Da Vinci Decathlon

The Da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition for students to compete in teams across 10 disciplines, including engineering, science, and English, challenging their teamwork, higher-order thinking, and creativity in an Olympic-style event.

Year Level: Year 7 – 11