Entries will soon open for the 2008 National History Challenge following the announcement today of the Challenge theme: Australia Meets the World.
The Challenge is a research based contest that gives students the opportunity to develop the skills of an historian through an investigation of the past. All students from Years 5 to 12 around the nation are encouraged to take part in this exciting experience.
Winners will be rewarded with cash prizes and a trip to Canberra. Students who enter the Challenge may submit essays, museum displays or audiovisual presentations.
Through the Challenge, students can investigate their community, explore their past, examine major events that have helped Australia evolve as a nation, or formulate new ideas and theories.
Finalists from each State and Territory will be flown to Canberra to compete for the national title of the Australian Young Historian of the Year. Each finalist will receive a cash prize and a medallion. The Australian Young Historian of the Year will receive $500, a plaque and a certificate.
The 2008 National History Challenge will undoubtedly produce more fine examples of student achievement and show how Australian students are developing their research skills while learning more about our nation’s past.
The Rudd Government believes the study of Australian history is essential and as announced in 2007 it will be a key element in the new National Curriculum.
The Rudd Government will work cooperatively with the States and Territories through a National Curriculum Board to implement a rigorous, content based national history curriculum for all Australian students from Kindergarten to Year 12.
The National History Challenge promotes the study of Australian history in schools and was established in 1995. Students are now able to register online and entries will close August 2008. For more information about the Challenge and how to enter the competition, visit: www.historychallenge.com.au/