At Hillcrest Christian College, we offer a range of enrichment activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork. These programs challenge students beyond the classroom and help them develop essential life skills.
These activities inspire students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and engage in meaningful academic challenges.
The World Scholar’s Cup (WSC) is an annual international academic programme that fosters global citizenship, critical thinking, and teamwork among students from over 65 countries. Participants engage in the Scholar’s Challenge, Scholar’s Bowl, Team Debate, and Collaborative Writing, competing in regional rounds that lead to the prestigious Global Round.
Hillcrest Christian College hosts the Gold Coast Regional round and has successfully sent top-performing teams to the finals at Yale University. This programme typically involves students from Years 6-12.
Write a Book in a Day is an annual creative challenge where students work in teams to write and illustrate a children’s story within 12 hours, raising funds for the Kids Cancer Project. Participants brainstorm ideas, develop characters, and craft a narrative based on a given prompt, with access to resources and support from teachers. This event is a testament to students’ creativity, time management, and teamwork, primarily involving students from Years 5-12.
The Griffith University STEM Ambassadors program offers passionate Year 9 and 10 students the opportunity to become leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Ambassadors collaborate with Griffith University to develop and deliver engaging STEM activities for both primary and secondary students. Through monthly workshops and hands-on experiences, they gain valuable skills in leadership, communication, and innovation while promoting STEM education within their school and the wider community.
*Alexis Chau (Pictured) Graduated 2023, ATAR 97.0
The Science and Engineering Challenge is an annual competition that tests students’ problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills through hands-on science and engineering challenges. Participants work in teams to design, build, and test solutions to real-world problems, such as constructing a weight-bearing bridge, developing a solar-powered device, or programming a robot to navigate a maze. This competition encourages creativity, critical thinking, and practical application of STEM concepts.
The Da Vinci Decathlon is a multidisciplinary academic competition celebrating students’ intellectual and creative achievements. Teams of eight compete in ten disciplines, including mathematics, science, English, art, and engineering. This event challenges students to think critically, solve problems, and showcase their knowledge across a broad range of subjects. The programme typically involves students from Years 5-11.
Hillcrest Debating offers students the opportunity to develop critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills through structured debates. Teams practice regularly and compete in various divisions across the southern Gold Coast. The programme fosters intellectual growth, public speaking abilities, and confidence, preparing students for success in multiple aspects of life. Debating teams often consist of students from Years 5-12.
The Readers Cup is an annual literary competition that encourages students to enhance their reading comprehension, critical thinking, and communication skills. Teams read a selection of books and compete in rounds where they answer questions about the texts. This event promotes a love for reading and thoughtful discussion, providing a challenging and rewarding experience for participants. The programme typically involves students from Years 5-9.
Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational simulation where students act as diplomats, engaging in international dialogue and debate on pressing global issues. Participants research and represent assigned countries, advocate for their perspectives, and work towards consensus solutions. MUN conferences at Bond University and TSS offer students an opportunity to develop their diplomatic and negotiation skills. This programme typically involves students from Years 10-12.
The Australian Schools Ethics Olympiad is an annual competition that promotes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and respectful communication among school students. Teams of five students compete in a series of debates on complex ethical issues, drawing on philosophical concepts and real-world examples to support their arguments.
Hillcrest Christian College collaborates with a wide range of industry leaders and organisations to enhance student learning through real-world experiences. These partnerships provide valuable insights into emerging technologies, innovation, and community development across various year levels.
These partnerships and others such within programs such as the Year 9 Rise Program, help students gain practical knowledge, industry connections, and real-world applications of their learning, preparing them for future careers in emerging fields.
