Selective schools and scholarship panels look for leadership, creativity, initiative, and passion—not just test scores. Parents can support their children in developing these qualities years ahead of application time through various activities.
Ways to Foster Leadership and Creativity
Here are some effective strategies:
Leadership Roles: Encourage your child to take on roles such as class captain, SRC member, sports team leader, or house captain. These positions help build confidence and leadership skills.
Participation in Academic Competitions: Engaging in competitions demonstrates interest and effort. It shows that your child is willing to challenge themselves academically.
Creative Pursuits: Encourage involvement in creative activities like writing, STEM, music, sports, and community service. These experiences foster creativity and innovation.
External Qualifications: Working toward qualifications, such as music grades, can show commitment and discipline. This dedication is often looked upon favorably by selection panels.
Academic Competitions
Below is a curated list of competitions across various subject areas, complete with links to official sites. This list isn’t exhaustive, and availability may vary depending on when you’re reading—some competitions may have closed or not yet opened for the year. We recommend bookmarking this page and checking back regularly to stay updated throughout the year.
Mathematics & Computational Thinking
Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) - Years 3-12. Certificates awarded. Learn more.
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Competition - Years 5-12. Certificates awarded. Learn more.
Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad - Years 7-10. Certificates for high achievers are awarded. Learn more.
Writing Competitions
KSP Writers' Centre Spooky & Horror Story Competition - For ages 12 and under; 13-17 brackets. Free entry. Learn more.
Dymock's Beyond Words Creative Writing Competition - Open to Primary/Secondary students. Prizes up to $3,000. Learn more.
Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards - Open entry with a small fee. Learn more.
Whitlam Institute's "What Matters?" Writing Competition - For Years 5-12, with a major cash prize. Learn more.
Insight Creative Writing Competition - For high school students, free entry with cash prizes. Learn more.
Science, Technology, Engineering & Environment
Australian Water Association's Junior Water Prize - For ages 15-20. Learn more.
Snowy Hydro "Powering Up the Future" Competition - For ages 8-18. Cash prizes to be won. Learn more.
Australian National University's STEM Challenges - For high school students. Certificates and prizes awarded to winners. Learn more.
Tips for Parents & Students
Start Early: Begin entering extra-curricular competitions and activities before preparing for academic entrance exams. Early involvement can build confidence and skills.
Balance Depth and Breadth: Don’t overcommit! Focus on a few areas of strength and interest. Quality over quantity is key.
Keep Records: Collate certificates, awards, and other documents to create a portfolio. This portfolio should showcase leadership roles, competition achievements, and music grades.
Reflect on Progress: Encourage your child to think about what they have learned, not just what they have earned. Remember, some competitions are highly competitive, so not every participant will receive an award or acknowledgment.
The Importance of Nurturing Skills
By nurturing leadership, curiosity, creativity, resilience, and passion, your child becomes more than just a strong academic performer. They gain a competitive edge that makes them stand out in selective school and scholarship applications.
At Hendersons, we help students shine with expert support for written applications, portfolio development, and interview preparation—ensuring every part of their submission reflects their best self.
support for written applications, portfolio development, and interview preparation
Conclusion
In conclusion, fostering leadership and creativity in children is essential for their academic and personal growth. By engaging in various activities and competitions, they can develop the skills necessary to succeed in selective schools and scholarship programs. Start early, stay organized, and encourage reflection to help your child thrive.