da Vinci Decathlon triumph
Edgecliff Preparatory School enjoyed a remarkable debut at the NSW State da Vinci Decathlon, with our boys achieving outstanding success against 158 teams from across the state.
Held in the Great Hall at Knox Grammar School, the da Vinci Decathlon is one of Australia’s leading academic competitions, challenging pupils to collaborate and compete across ten disciplines that test knowledge, creativity, problem solving and critical thinking. Against some of the state’s most talented young minds our Year 5 and Year 6 boys rose to the occasion with extraordinary distinction.
Our Year 5 team was crowned overall NSW State Champion, while the Year 6 team finished as NSW State Runner-Up. Across the day, both teams achieved exceptional results in a range of disciplines, including Cartography, Code Breaking, Ideation, Mathematics, Science and Legacy. Particularly pleasing were the first-place finishes achieved in both Cartography and Code Breaking, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the boys’ talents.
Such accomplishments are remarkable in themselves, but perhaps even more significant was the way the boys approached the challenge. Throughout the day they displayed intellectual curiosity, resilience and generosity of spirit, embracing unfamiliar problems, supporting one another and competing with humility and enthusiasm. They represented Edgecliff with maturity well beyond their years and demonstrated that academic excellence is at its best when combined with teamwork and good character.
One of the most memorable moments came at the conclusion of the competition, as the boys stepped forward to receive their medals and certificates. Their delight was genuine and infectious. There was a sense that they fully appreciated not only the rewards of success, but also the privilege of having shared such a unique experience together.
These results are a testament to the boys’ dedication and willingness to challenge themselves, as well as the support of families who embraced the decathlon for the first time. The boys have achieved something truly special and, in doing so, established a wonderful foundation for future Edgecliff teams.
Mrs Monica Watts
da Vinci Decathlon Coordinator
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
