The Tournament of Minds (TOM) is a prestigious problem-solving program that challenges teams of students from both primary and secondary years to think critically, collaborate effectively, and unleash their creativity. Designed to enhance the potential of young people, TOM develops skills in enterprise, time management, and teamwork as students tackle demanding, open-ended challenges in four disciplines:
- The Arts – requiring research and creative expression through dance, music, theatre, or visual arts.
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) – integrating STEM principles to solve real-world problems using creative and critical thinking.
- Language Literature – involving deep analysis and research of literary texts.
- Social Sciences – exploring ethical and moral issues confronting society in the 21st century
This year, St Patrick’s Wallsend proudly entered two teams: one in the Creative Arts division and one in Language Literature.
Creative Arts Team: Harlow Betts, Abbey Rostron, Grace Binu, Rachel George, Ruby Neaves, Poppy Seib, Jaxon Broughton
Language Literature Team: Mia Headley, Olivia Lister, Maisie Johns, Jamie Chu, Agnether Njau, Layla Betts, Bailey Goff
Guided by our Gifted Education Mentor teacher, Ms Josette Nicholas, both teams gave up countless lunch and recess breaks to prepare their innovative presentations. Their hard work and dedication were evident on competition day.
While the Creative Arts team did not place this year, the Language Literature team triumphed, winning their regional division and earning a place to represent the Newcastle region at the State Finals in Sydney on Sunday, 14 September.
This marks the second consecutive year St Patrick’s has advanced to the State Finals – an outstanding achievement that reflects the depth of talent and commitment within our school community.
We are immensely proud of both teams for their creative thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. Congratulations to all participants, and best of luck to our Language Literature team as they take St Patrick’s to the Sydney stage!
