Beyond the Bell

Welcome to Beyond the Bell, where we share the many opportunities, achievements and experiences happening beyond the classroom.

There are things to celebrate and even more to look forward to! This issue includes several exciting competitions now open to students, offering opportunities to challenge themselves, explore their interests and extend their learning in different ways.

From science and mathematics to writing and creative thinking, there is something for everyone - and more opportunities will be shared in the coming newsletters. 

We encourage all students to get involved, have a go, and see where their curiosity can take them!

Bebras Challenge – Results Now Available!

We’re pleased to share that Bebras Challenge results are now available on the portal.

The Bebras Challenge is an international computational thinking competition that encourages students to develop problem-solving skills through engaging and challenging tasks. It focuses on logical thinking, patterns and algorithms - key skills in today’s digital world.

Congratulations to all of our students who participated in this year’s challenge! Your effort, persistence and problem-solving skills were fantastic to see.

Certificates will be presented at the next available assembly, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of all students involved.

Well done to everyone who took part - we are very proud of your efforts! 

Harmony Day Poster Competition – There’s still time to enter!

We’re excited to share that the Harmony Day Poster Competition is now open for entries!

This national competition invites students to create an artwork that celebrates diversity, inclusion and belonging.

2026 Theme: “Harmony – Stronger Together”

Who can enter?

The competition is open to all school students across Australia.

Students can enter individually or as part of a group.

What do students do?

Students create an A3 poster using drawing, painting or mixed media to represent the theme.

Important Details:

• Entries close: 15 April 2026

• Format: A3 artwork (drawing, painting or mixed media)

• Junior category: Foundation – Year 6

Why enter?

Students will have the opportunity to:

• Express their ideas about diversity and inclusion

• Develop creativity and artistic skills

• Share messages of respect, kindness and belonging

There are prizes awarded across year levels, including $250 for overall winners and $150 for group winners.

If your child enjoys art and wants to share an important message about inclusion, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved.

Science Talent Search 2026 – Now Open!

We’re excited to announce that the Science Talent Search (STS) 2026 is now open for entries - and this year marks the 75th anniversary of this fantastic competition!

This is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore their curiosity, think creatively, and showcase their scientific understanding.

Who can enter?

The competition is open to all primary and secondary students across Victoria. Students can enter individually or in groups of up to 2 students.

2026 Theme: “Seeds of Science – Nurturing knowledge for all”

The 2026 theme encourages students to see science as a living, evolving process. Just as seeds need the right conditions to grow, knowledge flourishes when it is nurtured, shared, and applied to real-world challenges. Students are invited to plant ideas, ask questions, and develop projects that demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

Entry Categories:

Students can choose from the following categories:

• Computer Programs

• Creative Writing

• Experimental Research

• Games

• Inventions

• Science Photography

• Scientific Posters

• Video Productions

• Working Models

   

Important Dates (for students):

• 3 March – Registrations open

• 25 May – Registrations close

• 12 June – Entry submissions open

• 27 July – Entry submissions close (no late entries accepted)

• 7 October – Results and certificates distributed

• 10 November – Virtual showcase launched

   

Students are encouraged to start thinking about their ideas now and be ready to register when details are released shortly. 

Further Information and Handbook:  https://stav.org.au/science-talent-search/

Why enter?

Students will develop skills in:

• Critical and creative thinking

• Inquiry and investigation

• Communication and presentation

There are also prizes and recognition for outstanding entries.

If your child is interested, please encourage them to begin planning their ideas and stay tuned for further details. We are happy to support students in preparing their entries.

Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards – Now Open!

We’re excited to share that the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards are now open for entries!

This well-known national competition celebrates creativity and encourages students to express their thoughts, feelings and ideas through poetry. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students who enjoy writing to challenge themselves and explore the power of language.

2026 Optional Theme: “The Traveller” 

Students may choose to respond to this theme or submit an open poem on a topic of their choice.

Who can enter?

The competition is open to students across Australia, from Kindergarten through to Year 12.

Why enter?

Students will have the opportunity to:

• Develop creativity and imagination

• Experiment with language and poetic techniques

• Express personal ideas and perspectives

• Build confidence in writing

   

There are a range of prizes awarded at a national level, recognising outstanding entries across different year groups.

If your child enjoys writing or would like to give poetry a try, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved.

Further information and entry details can be found here:  https://www.dorothea.com.au/

We look forward to seeing the creativity and voice of our young writers shine! 

Maths Talent Quest – Now Open!

We’re excited to share that the Maths Talent Quest (MTQ) is now open for entries!

Maths Talent Quest is a project-based competition run by the Mathematical Association of Victoria. It encourages students to explore real-world mathematical investigations and develop positive attitudes towards mathematics through curiosity, creativity and problem solving.

Who can enter?

Students from Foundation to Year 12 can enter individually, in small groups, or as a class.

What do students do?

Students choose a topic of interest and investigate how mathematics connects to it. Topics can be wide-ranging, for example:

• How much does it cost to own a dog?

• Can we predict who will win the AFL Grand Final?

• What shape holds the most M&M’s?

• Is public transport cheaper than driving?

Students can begin working on their investigations at any time throughout the year.

Important Dates:

• Registrations open: February 2026

• Registrations close: 31 July 2026

• State judging: August 2026

• National judging: August–September 2026

• Awards ceremony: 26 October 2026 (TBC)

Why enter?

Students will:

• Apply maths to real-world situations

• Develop problem-solving and reasoning skills

• Think creatively and independently

• Present their ideas in engaging ways

   

If your child enjoys mathematics or is curious about how maths connects to the world around them, this is a fantastic opportunity to get involved.

Wild At Art – Coming Soon!

We’re excited to share that Wild At Art, Australia’s biggest wildlife art competition for kids, will be opening soon!

Run by the Australian Conservation Foundation, this national competition invites students to create an artwork inspired by Australian wildlife and the natural environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to combine creativity with their understanding of sustainability and conservation.

Who can enter?

The competition is open to students aged 5 - 12 years across Australia.

What do students do?

Students create an original artwork featuring a native Australian animal or habitat. Each entry also includes a short-written statement explaining the inspiration behind their work and why their chosen species or environment is important.

Important Dates:

• Entries open: 22 June 2026

• Entries close: 10 August 2026

Students are encouraged to start thinking about their ideas now and prepare ahead of time.

Why enter?

Students will have the opportunity to:

• Express creativity through visual art

• Learn about Australian wildlife and conservation

• Develop awareness of environmental issues

• Share their voice on protecting our natural world

Further information and entry details can be found here: https://www.acf.org.au/get-involved/wild-at-art-competition

We look forward to seeing the creativity and passion of our young artists.

Questions about any of the competitions available can be directed to Carole Upton (Learning Enrichment Leader) @ caroleupton@education.vic.gov.au. 

Kind regards,

Carole Upton

Learning Enrichment Leader