Competitions have long been a powerful tool in education, igniting excitement, motivation, and a sense of achievement in students. In a webinar hosted by Education Perfect (EP), teachers from EP-using schools in Australia shared how academic competitions have transformed their classrooms, fostering engagement and deeper learning.
Why Competitions Work
Competitions tap into students’ natural drive to succeed, turning learning into an experience rather than an obligation. They create an environment where students are not just working towards grades but actively participating in a journey of discovery and growth.
Lana Svonavec, HOD at Science Tintern Grammar School and one of the educators featured in the webinar, emphasised the impact of competitions:
“Competitions offer students a fun, dynamic way to engage with content. It’s not just about winning – it’s about seeing how far they can push themselves and discovering their own potential.”
When students see measurable progress in a competitive setting, it reinforces their confidence and willingness to engage more deeply with the subject matter.
Encouraging Motivation and Resilience
A key benefit of competitions is their ability to motivate students to take ownership of their learning. When students are given a challenge, whether an individual or team-based competition, they often rise to the occasion, setting personal goals and striving to improve.
Kiraly Payne, a Language Executive Teacher at Amaroo School, ACT, highlighted how competition enhances perseverance: “When students feel seen and supported, they’re more willing to take risks, make mistakes, and engage fully in the learning process.”
This growth mindset not only helps students academically but also builds resilience, teaching them to embrace challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles.
The Role of Digital Platforms in Competitions
Technology has revolutionised the way academic competitions are run, making them more accessible, engaging, and rewarding. With platforms like EP, students can participate in global challenges that give them a sense of connection beyond their classroom walls.
Lana Svonavec shared her experience with EP competitions: “Competitions like the EP Languages Championship and the EP Science Championship allow students to see tangible rewards for their efforts, helping them feel accomplished and motivated to keep learning.”
These competitions provide instant feedback, interactive content, and leaderboards, making the experience immersive and rewarding.
Building a Collaborative Learning Culture
While competition is often associated with individual achievement, it can also foster collaboration and teamwork. Many EP competitions encourage students to work together towards common goals, creating a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Through collaboration, students develop communication skills, critical thinking and peer learning, all essential skills for future success. Whether in language challenges, maths quizzes, or science problem-solving tasks, competitions offer an engaging way to reinforce teamwork and shared learning.
A Tool for Every Student
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of academic competitions is their inclusivity. They cater to a wide range of learners – whether high achievers looking for a challenge or students who may need a new way to engage with content.
Kiraly Payne summed it up perfectly: “Students aren’t just sitting back and absorbing information—they’re interacting with it. They’re testing themselves, learning through doing, and staying much more engaged.”
Competitions provide multiple entry points for engagement, ensuring that all students, regardless of their starting point, can find success and enjoyment in learning.
Unlocking Potential Through Competition
The insights shared by these educators reinforce a fundamental truth: competition, when structured thoughtfully, is a powerful catalyst for student engagement and learning. It brings energy into the classroom, drives students to challenge themselves, and fosters a culture of perseverance and collaboration.
By incorporating competitions into the learning experience – whether through digital platforms, classroom challenges, or global events – educators can inspire students to embrace learning with enthusiasm and confidence. As students push their boundaries and celebrate their progress, they develop not just knowledge but a lifelong passion for discovery.
Want to bring the power of competitions into your classroom?
Take part in our EP World Series Competitions, free for all students with an EP account across Australia, New Zealand and select International Schools.
Want to add a splash of colour to your classroom walls? Download our free Languages Championships posters here!
