THREE Capalaba State College students have hardly had time to unpack their bags before planning what could be their second overseas trip in less than six months.
Competing in the global round of the World Scholar’s Cup in Athens last month, Tej Stewart-Ramji, Ashleigh Walker and Kaitlin Fuller qualified for final event in the United States in November.
Capalaba State College principal Bronwyn Johnstone said they were working out the logistics in the hope the students would be able to attend.
A total of 18 students from the school took part in a local round in April during which three teams qualified for the Athens competition.
With support from Capalaba MP Don Brown, the school sent one team to the event where they came 15th, qualifying for the Tournament of Champions at Yale University.
The World Scholars Cup competitions consist of debating, collaborative writing and exams in arts, literature, science and history.
Ms Johnstone said it was the first time two of the students had been overseas and the first trip to Europe for all three.
“Alongside the academic competition the students also enjoyed the sights and sounds of the Greek islands, temples and history,” she said.
“They got to try different foods, experience the climate and swim in the Mediterranean.
“Swimming in the Aegean Sea below the Temple of Poseidon is a once in a lifetime experience.”
Ms Johnstone said the students had competed against a couple of thousand others from around the world at the competition.
“In the debates, they got to hear about their perspectives and life experiences.”
Ms Johnstone said the opportunity had motivated other students at the school.
“When the group got back they held an assembly during which they showed pictures and shared their experiences.
“It was such a motivator that many students are preparing now for next year’s competition.”
Ms Johnstone said Capalaba State College was the only state school in Australia at the event in Athens and the only Queensland school.
“There were many international and private schools at the event so we were certainly up against some elite competition.”
Anyone who is able to support the students to attend the tournament in the United States in November can contact Capalaba State College on 3823 9111.
