World Scholars’ Cup (WSC) is an international academic program with more than 15,000 students participating from over 65 countries every year. Twelve Rutherford College students from Year 9, 10 and 11 took part in this exciting competition hosted by Kelston Boys’ High School on 22 and 23 June: Natalia Noone-Jones, Kaia Evans, Jacquelyn Dennis, Theo Meek, Kisharn Haupapa Dunn, Luca Armitage, Lorenzo Pearce, Luca Boyack, Maia Parker, Ella Nguyen, Tinirau Hohepa and Theo RobbMarkham.

Despite the intensity of the tasks and very long days of grueling competitions, all students achieved amazing results and each one of them took several medals home. The Junior Division team members were absolute stars of the competition. Natalia Noone-Jones took 5 silver and 6 gold medals, as well as the Top Scholar Trophy and Team Writing Trophy. Luca Armitage won 4 gold medals in Literature, History, and Arts challenges, and took one of the most prestigious trophies, Isaac Asimov Trophy for the top score across all six subject areas.

The Scholars’ Cup was composed of 6 events: Collaborative Writing, Debating, the Scholars’ Bowl, the Scholars’ Challenge, the Debate Showcase, and the Talent Show. This included intense debating, fascinating essay writing, multiple-choice quizzes from six subject areas (Science, Technology, Art, Literature, Social Sciences, and Special Topic), and more.

Three out of four teams qualified for the Global round in Shanghai. However, travel overseas is still restricted with NZ borders being closed, which means that Auckland teams will, unfortunately, miss this exciting opportunity.