GOOD MORNING SCHOLARS!

This is a greeting I have become very familiar with. On the 18th of August, 9 students from years 8-10 at St Thomas’ travelled to Melbourne to attend the Global Round of The World Scholars Cup. This was an international event with 1600+ students travelling from over 20 different countries all who had to qualify at their regional competition earlier in the year. Each with the same goal, to do our best.

How it worked, we competed as teams of 3, with each team member completing 4 different disciplines: Debating, Persuasive Writing, the Scholars Challenge and the Scholars Bowl all spread over 5 days. All covering different global topics and issues. The objective is to encourage us as learners to think outside the box and see the big picture, while working together, under pressure and within time constraints.

This was an awesome if sometimes surreal experience, the days were busy and long, and the competition was fierce. We did have 1 rostered day off, in which we travelled around the town, looking at the sights, and buying gifts for home.

At the end of the tournament, our three 3 teams (2 junior and 1 senior) brought home 16 medals in the following subjects: debating, history, science, social studies. It was a great experience for the teams, really challenging us to think outside the box and be creative. Thanks to Mr Scadden and Mr Barclay for making it all happen.

Next step the Champions Round at Yale University, if we qualify.