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Participation Guidelines

Welcome to the Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod Participation Guidelines.

These guidelines are designed to help students, families and teachers understand how the event works, what to expect on the day, and how to prepare confidently.

We encourage all participants to read through the information below to ensure a positive and smooth Eisteddfod experience.

Performance Guidelines
  • All performances are adjudicated by industry professionals.
  • Adjudicators’ decisions are final. Concerns must be raised with the MC or front-of-house staff before adjudication begins.
  • Once judging starts, no further entries will be accepted.
  • Each section follows its own judging criteria (see Section Guidelines).
  • Reports and certificates are available at the registration desk after each session.
  • All material must be age-appropriate and reflect Sydney Catholic Schools’ values.
  • Inappropriate content or censored language will result in penalties.
For advice on repertoire selection, contact the Eisteddfod Team.
  • Performers may need to announce their piece and composer.
  • Timing starts with the first movement, note or word and ends with the last. Exceeding time limits incurs point deductions.
  • All communication must go through the MC or front-of-house team.
  • Ensembles that significantly exceed time limits may be stopped.
Presentation Requirements
  • Students may wear school uniform or age-appropriate performance attire.
  • Theatre blacks are preferred for drama.
  • Costumes must be appropriate to age and performance; inappropriate dress may result in point deductions.

Folk and cultural sections may wear traditional attire.

  • Standard equipment is provided (see section listings).
  • Schools must supply any additional instruments or effects.
  • Props, instruments and equipment must be removed after each section – no overnight storage.
  • Scores, scripts, and tracks must be uploaded during registration. Any changes to scripts in Speech and Drama sections on the day of performance will incur penalties. Ensure any changes to scripts are sent at least one week in advance of the performance.
  • Files: PDF for text, MP3/AIFF for audio.
  • No YouTube or video links.
  • Backing tracks must be edited to fit time limits.
  • Label all files clearly following this format:
    • Solo: SectionNumber_StudentName_School
    • Ensemble: SectionNumber_School_EntryName
Compliance & Recognition
  • Awards are presented at the end of each section or session.
  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place receive trophies or medals; Highly Commended and Encouragement Awards may also be given.
  • Award allocations are determined on the day based on the number of entrants that arrive to perform. First place is guaranteed, with all other awards given at the adjudicators’ discretion.
  • Points contribute to the Overall School Award:
    • Participation – 1 point
    • Encouragement – 2 points
    • Highly Commended – 5 points
    • 3rd Place – 8 points
    • 2nd Place – 10 points
    • 1st Place – 12 points

Only the five highest-placing solo entries per school per category count toward total school points.

  • Schools perform under the APRA/AMCOS education licence.
  • It is each school’s responsibility to follow copyright and photocopying rules.
More info: APRA AMCOS Licensing for Schools
  • Outstanding performers may be invited to perform at the SCS Eisteddfod Showcase in 2026. Invitations are issued at the discretion of the Eisteddfod Team during competition days and may include non–1st place entrants whose performances were exceptional or unique.