At NGS, we believe in nurturing the potential of our students through a rich array of Intellectual Competitions. Our commitment to fostering academic excellence is demonstrated through the wide range of opportunities designed to challenge, inspire and ignite the intellectual curiosity within each student. From spirited debates that sharpen critical thinking skills to captivating quiz competitions that showcase knowledge, our Intellectual Competitions offer a platform for students to excel and shine. We empower our students to explore their passions, delve into problem-solving challenges, and collaborate with peers to unlock their potential. These competitions not only celebrate academic achievement but also cultivate a lifelong love for learning, preparing our students to embrace a world of possibilities. At NGS, we champion intellectual growth, and our Intellectual Competitions stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
Chess
Chess at Newcastle Grammar School is offered to both Primary and Secondary students, providing a structured pathway from foundational learning to high-level competition. Weekly lessons help students develop strategic thinking, concentration, and problem-solving skills in a supportive and engaging environment.
As students progress, they have the opportunity to represent the school in regional and state-level tournaments, competing against some of the best young players in New South Wales. Whether learning the basics or refining advanced tactics, our Chess program fosters intellectual growth, resilience, and a love of the game.
Debating
Debating at Newcastle Grammar School is a vibrant and inclusive program offered to students from Year 5 to Year 12, fostering confidence, critical thinking, and articulate expression. Through structured coaching and regular practice, students learn to construct persuasive arguments, engage in respectful discourse, and think on their feet.
NGS proudly fields fifteen teams in the statewide HICES Debating Competition, providing students with opportunities to compete at a high level. In 2024, our teams achieved outstanding success, winning both the Middle and Senior Division Championships, and earning the prestigious Sue Macneil Overall Champion School trophy.
These achievements reflect the strength of our program and the dedication of our students and staff. Debating at NGS is not only about competition—it’s about empowering students to become thoughtful, confident communicators and leaders.
Intellectual Competitions
da Vinci Decathlon
NGS teams regularly participate in this academic competition that challenges students across ten disciplines: Engineering, Mathematics, Code Breaking, Art and Poetry, Science, English, Ideation, Creative Producers, Cartography, and General Knowledge. NGS teams have the opportunity to compete at the regional level, with successful teams advancing to the NSW finals.
Mock Trial
Mock Trial immerses students in the world of law and justice, offering hands-on experience in courtroom procedures and legal reasoning. As they prepare cases, examine witnesses, and present arguments, students sharpen their analytical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork. This program builds confidence and resilience while fostering a deep appreciation for ethics, advocacy, and the rule of law.
Model United Nations
Model United Nations empowers students to step into the role of global diplomats, engaging in debate, negotiation, and policy-making on pressing international issues. Through research, public speaking, and collaboration, students gain a deeper understanding of global affairs and develop essential skills in leadership, diplomacy, and critical analysis. Model United Nations nurtures empathy, confidence, and a strong sense of global citizenship.
Tournament of Minds
Tournament of Minds challenges students to think creatively and collaboratively as they solve complex, open-ended problems across disciplines such as STEM, Language & Literature, Social Sciences, and The Arts. Working in teams, students develop critical thinking, innovation, and presentation skills, culminating in a dynamic showcase of their solutions. This enriching experience fosters resilience, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity.
Technology and Innovation
E-Sports
NGS students actively compete in the AEL E-Sports Schools Championships, showcasing their gaming skills in a variety of exciting and secure tournaments.
Bricks 4 Kidz
NGS students benefit from our partnership with Bricks 4 Kidz, engaging in creative and educational LEGO®-based activities. They explore exciting themes such as Environment, Space, and Transport, enhancing their problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Tech Club
NGS students benefit from collaborating with Code Camp, engaging in innovative and educational technology activities. They explore exciting themes such as coding, app development, and robotics, enhancing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
In The Kitchen
Primary aged students are offered a hands-on culinary experience, where they learn essential cooking skills and nutrition knowledge. Encouraging creativity and teamwork, our students explore various cuisines and cooking techniques in a fun and engaging environment.
Write a Book In A Bay (WABIAD)
Write A Book In A Day is a fast-paced, creative challenge that invites students to collaborate in writing, illustrating, and publishing a complete book—all within a single day. Working as a team, students harness their imagination, storytelling skills, and artistic talents while developing time management, communication, and resilience. The initiative also supports a meaningful cause, with completed books donated to children in hospitals, fostering empathy and a sense of purpose.
Public Speaking
Public Speaking at Newcastle Grammar School empowers students to express themselves with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Offered across multiple year levels, the program provides opportunities to develop persuasive communication skills through workshops, coaching, and formal competitions.
Students participate in local and statewide events, presenting speeches on a range of topics that challenge their creativity and critical thinking. Through this program, students build self-assurance, refine their voice, and learn to engage diverse audiences with impact and authenticity.
Philosophy and Ethics
The Philosophy and Ethics program at Newcastle Grammar School encourages students to explore complex ideas and moral questions through inquiry, discussion, and debate. Students may engage with topics such as justice, identity, truth, and ethical decision-making, developing their ability to think critically, reason logically, and communicate with clarity.
Beyond the classroom, students have the opportunity to participate in prestigious events such as the Ethics Olympiad, Free Thinkers Forum, and Meeting of the Minds, where they collaborate and compete with like-minded peers from across the region and beyond. These experiences deepen their understanding of philosophical concepts while fostering respectful dialogue, empathy, and intellectual curiosity.
