About the Schools Reconciliation Challenge

The Schools Reconciliation Challenge is Reconciliation NSW’s annual art and writing program for young people in NSW and the ACT.

The theme for the 2026 Schools Reconciliation Challenge is based on the National Reconciliation Week theme: ALL IN – Belonging today. Building Tomorrow. Explore the 2026 theme!

This year the Schools Reconciliation Challenge officially begins 27. April 2026 and we will be accepting art, writing and video submissions until 21. August. Submissions can be made through our portal. However, we encourage students and teachers to engage with the Activities provided on our website and use the lesson plan for 2026 tailored to the theme.

The Schools Reconciliation Challenge is open to all young people in years 3-10 (or equivalent ages), Indigenous and non-Indigenous, of all abilities. Young people may enter the Schools Reconciliation Challenge through their school.

Register here to take part in the 2026 Schools Reconciliation Challenge and receive updates straight to your inbox.

Artworks and short stories created for the Schools Reconciliation Challenge are to be submitted by 21. August 2026. Writing and artwork submissions must be original creative pieces that relate to the theme and explore reconciliation more broadly.

Submission Requirements

  • All entries must be submitted digitally via the official online portal by 21 August 2026. Late entries will not be accepted.
  • A completed online entry form and an Artist Statement or Writer’s Reflection must accompany each submission.
  • Entries must be the original work of the student(s).
  • Written submissions may be reviewed for originality, including the use of AI-generated content.
  • Submissions that are wholly AI-generated or that breach originality requirements may be disqualified.
  • Entries must not have been previously published, self-published, broadcast, publicly exhibited, posted online, or entered into another competition.
  • Once submitted, entries cannot be amended, replaced, or corrected.
  • Schools must retain original physical artworks. No physical artworks are to be mailed to Reconciliation NSW unless specifically requested.

Art Entries

  • Digital files must be clearly labelled using the following format: School_Title of Artwork_Student Name
  • Artwork must be submitted as a high-quality digital photograph or scan. Preferred file formats: .jpg, .gif, .bmp (or as specified in the portal).
  • Images must:
    • Be clear and high resolution (Low-quality images may impact judging or exhibition inclusion)
    • Show only the artwork (no students or background environments)
    • Be suitable for reproduction in print and digital exhibition format

Writing Entries

  • Digital files must be clearly labelled using the format: School_Title of Artwork_Student Name
  • Written submissions must not exceed 500 words.
  • Files must be submitted in PDF or Word format.
  • Written entries will be reviewed for originality, including potential AI-generated content.

Video Entries

  • Digital files must be clearly labelled using the format: School_Title of Artwork_Student Name
  • Video submissions must not exceed the timelimit of 4 minutes.
  • Files must be submitted in MP4 or MOV format.
  • By submitting a video entry, the entrant confirms that they have obtained all necessary permissions to film any individuals featured in the video and that all individuals appearing have provided informed consent, including consent for their image, voice, likeness, and story to be recorded, submitted, and published. Where required, a signed media release form should be obtained to confirm this consent.

Yes, students may choose to create artworks or stories or both. Please note that if students choose to submit both an artwork and story they will need to complete an artists and writers statement for each of their entries.

The Schools Reconciliation Challenge covers BOSTES curriculum outcomes relating to English, History and Visual Arts for stages 3, 4 and 5.
For further information about the Curriculum Outcomes for the Schools Reconciliation Challenge each year please check the last pages of the lesson plan.

The Schools Reconciliation Challenge website contains information on this year’s theme, how to register and participate in the Challenge.  You may contact Reconciliation NSW via email at schools@reconciliationnsw.org.au