Ethics Olympiad Middle School International Final

On Wednesday 18 February we had a team of five students represent Concordia in the Ethics Olympiad Middle School International Final. The Ethics Olympiad is a competition focused on critical thinking, respectful dialogue and ethical analysis of real-life cases. This competition brought together 50 teams from across the world, including students from all the states and territories of Australia, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, India and Canada. Our team was invited to compete, alongside three other South Australian schools, after a gold medal performance in our heat last year. 

Some of the cases they explored in preparation for the competition included:

• Should Artists’ Ethics Affect Our Artistic Judgments?
• Bullfighting
• Relying on Civilian Intelligence in War
• Using AI in the Classroom.

Our students had a brilliant experience and proved that ethical thinking can be rigorous, collaborative and genuinely fun.

Congratulations to Sophia (10LTRA) Benjamin (9JEGA) Amelia (10VNAR) Daisy (10NSHW) and Lucy (10HLEW).

70 Years of the Duke of Ed

Since its beginnings in 1956, The Duke of Ed has been more than just a framework—it’s a passport to possibility. It’s where young people challenge themselves, discover their potential and realise that they’re capable of far more than they ever imagined.

Across Australia, 90,000+ young people have taken part in the Framework so far. Each one has their own story—whether it’s conquering a mountain or urban trek, learning a new language, mastering an instrument or giving back to their community. These experiences don’t just fill a logbook; they build confidence, compassion and character.

Students can commence the Framework from age 14. In significant changes, from this year, the Bronze level can be completed in a shorter timeframe with the minimum duration reduced from six months to three months. Newly registered students are no longer required to complete a Major Section. It is hoped recent changes will allow for greater accessibility and retention. Organised students can complete all three Levels by the end of Year 11. Please contact Emma Rieger if you would like support with this program.

Upcoming Opportunities

Youth Parliament: The YMCA South Australia Youth Parliament is a non-partisan program designed to offer individuals aged 15-25 years a platform to express their perspectives on significant matters. It aims to foster the development of leadership skills, enhance parliamentary comprehension and deepen understanding of democracy. Applications close on 13 March 2026. Learn more here.

Emma Rieger
Enrichment and Extended Learning