About the Challenge
The Schools Reconciliation Challenge is an annual writing and art program for young people across NSW and the ACT. Every year, students are invited to create artworks, stories and new this year videos inspired by a reconciliation theme – and reflect on what reconciliation means to them.
Our Journey
The Challenge began in 2010 with the theme Reconciliation: The Road Ahead. Since then, it has grown into a statewide platform celebrating student creativity and commitment to reconciliation.
The Exhibition & Tour
Each year, selected artworks and writing are curated into a beautiful exhibition that showcases creativity and thoughtfulness around reconciliation.
Since 2015, the National Trust has helped tour the exhibition across NSW, including regional locations—bringing the Challenge to more students and communities.
Since 2019, with support from International Towers, we are proudly exhibiting at Barangaroo’s National Towers during NAtional reconciliation Week.
Thank you for being ALL IN
Entries for 2026 are now closed and we are busy shortlisting all the wonderful pieces!
Requirements & Timeline
Who Can Enter?
All young people in Years 3–10 (or of equivalent age) across NSW and the ACT—Indigenous and non-Indigenous, of all abilities—are welcome to enter.
You can participate through your school and it’s free to take part.
Key Dates 2026
-
Challenge opens: 27 April 2026
-
Submission deadline extended !! Friday 28 August 2026
-
Judging period: September–October 2026
-
Finalists announced: November 2026
- Awards Ceremony: December 2026
For Teachers
- Lesson plans for each stage developed with educational partners and are curriculum aligned
- Classroom activities tailored to the theme
- Guidance for culturally competent teaching
- Cultural guides
How to Create
Use the Create Art and/or Create Writing activities.
Use provided lesson plans and resources to inspire original artworks, written pieces or videos.
How to Submit
The Schools Reconciliation Challenge is a digital-first program. All entries—whether artworks, poems, or short stories—must be submitted online in digital format.
For more information about requirements visit our Submission website and see the Terms and Conditions
Prizes
Every participant will receive a Certificate of participation.
Every Finalists will receive a prize pack, and be invited to our Awards Ceremony at the end of a year.
For more details, visit:
Register / Submit / Terms and Conditions