The Real-World Classroom Challenge

The opportunity

Every classroom has moments where learning could be more engaging, personalised, or efficient. The 2026 Catholic Educator Hackathon invites you to identify a genuine opportunity in your school community and design a practical, creative solution using Canva Code.

We aren't just looking for big ideas - we are looking for meaningful, usable solutions. Whether it supports teaching, wellbeing, assessment, or organisation, your creation should solve a genuine problem and make a meaningful impact.

Who is this for? This is for all educators in Catholic education. You do not need to be a coding expert. You need to be a problem solver who wants to build tools that truly support Catholic schools.

Choose your stream

Primary Stream

The Goal: Create a tool that makes learning visual, interactive, and playful.
The Challenge: Identify a moment where an interactive tool could:

• Transform passive listening into active participation.

• Make abstract concepts visual and accessible.

• Support the holistic needs of the learner.

• Encourage curiosity and self-directed discovery.

Secondary Stream

The Goal: Create a tool that builds critical thinking, independence, and exam readiness.
The Challenge: Identify a learning moment where a tool could:

• Scaffold complex thinking and problem-solving.

• Empower students to take greater ownership of their progress.

• Streamline workflow to maximise learning time.

• Deepen understanding through interactive exploration.

Prizes and recognition

Showcase your innovation and win rewards for your school and yourself!

Top Prize

Boost school spirit with a CEnet ping-pong package
(1 x Primary and 1 x Secondary Winner)

Win a ping-pong table for your school, complete with paddles and balls. A fun addition to your staffroom or student common area, provided by CEnet.

Second Prize

Bring your designs to life with Canva Print Vouchers (Valued at $____)!
(1 x Primary and 1 x Secondary Winner)

Use them to design and order a range of professional-quality products, including custom apparel, stationery, stickers, photobooks, mugs, and more.

Third Prize

The Canva Essentials Pack
(1 x Primary and 1 x Secondary Winner)

Take home a bundle of exclusive Canva swag, including a Bluetooth speaker, premium drink bottle, and stationery.

All participants

• Official Recognition: Receive a Certificate of Participation to add to your professional portfolio.

• Network-Wide Impact: Earn the chance to have your tool used by teachers across the entire Catholic education network, making a real difference in classrooms beyond your own.

Judging Criteria

How will your submission be evaluated?

1. Classroom Opportunity: Is the problem clear, specific, and grounded in real classroom practice?

2. Learning Impact: Does the tool meaningfully enhance engagement, understanding, or independence?

3. Use of Canva Code: Is the interactivity creative, purposeful, and functional?

4. Differentiation: Does the tool support diverse learners (accessibility, extension, support)?

5. Practicality: Is it classroom-ready and easy for other teachers to adapt?