The Real-World Classroom Challenge: 2026 Wrap Up
Every classroom has moments where learning can be more engaging, personalised, or efficient. The CEnet 2026 Catholic Educator Hackathon invited educators to identify a genuine opportunity in their school community and design a practical, creative solution using Canva Code. We weren't just looking for big ideas - we looked for meaningful, usable solutions. Whether they supported teaching, wellbeing, assessment, or organisation, the creations needed to solve a genuine problem and make a meaningful impact.
The challenge was open to all educators in Catholic education who wanted to be problem solvers and build tools that truly supported Catholic schools.
Congratulations to our 2026 Winners!
Educators across the network stepped up to the challenge, and we are delighted to announce our winners.
First Prize
Our top winners each received the CEnet ping-pong package, complete with a ping-pong table, paddles and balls to boost school spirit in their staffroom or student common area!
Congratulations to:
Tracy Van Reyk, St Peter's Catholic School, Halifax for the interactive widget: Auslan Fingerspelling
Chris Maguire & Clare Willemse, Santa Sophia Catholic College for the innovative widget: Learn Japanese Hiragana
Second Prize
Our second-place winners received $250 Canva Print Vouchers to bring their custom designs to life with professional-quality products!
Congratulations to:
John Campbell, Catholic Education Office Rockhampton for Four Strikes and You Are Out
Michael O’Brien, St Patrick’s College Campbelltown for Peer Exchange
Third Prize
Our third-place winners took home the Canva Essentials Pack, an exclusive swag bundle featuring a Bluetooth speaker, premium drink bottle and stationery!
Congratulations to:
Natalie Elia, St Francis Catholic College Edmondson Park for Nature of Business
Ryan Noonan, Chevalier College for Study Buddy Teacher
How submissions were evaluated