The National Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.
The challenge has been presented at schools nation wide for twenty-five years, and that’s thanks to the ongoing partnerships mentioned above, along with sponsorship and dedicated teachers and keen students.
More than 240 High School students from eight schools across the country put their Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills to the test at the national finals of The University of Newcastle’s Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) held on 31 October 2025 at NUSport at the Forum.
As Australia’s leading STEM outreach program, this year’s SEC National Finals marked 25 years since the program’s inception, during which almost half a million students have participated in SEC events.
In 2025, more than 26,000 students from 871 schools competed in the challenge, with the top teams from around the country coming together in Newcastle to compete for the title of National Champions 2025. Belmont Christian College competed against teams from Auburn High School (VIC), Launceston Christian School (TAS), Marist College Emerald (QLD), Emmaus Christian School (ACT/NSW), Margaret River Senior High School (WA), Pembroke School (SA) and a combined team representing Darwin Middle and High School (NT).
When the final scores were totalled, Emmaus Christian School achieved the top spot with a score of 1426.15, claiming the title of National Champions for 2025.
In 2026 the challenge on the Central Coast will take place on 16/17 June at St Edwards College. The following video celebrates twenty-five years of the program.
