MYTH: Only private schools participate

TRUTH: Any secondary school can get involved – whether private or public, religious or non-denominational. More than 70% of participating schools in 2006 were government public schools and the remainder are a mix. Simailarly, any primary school can get involved in RECs sister event, J Rock™.

MYTH: Schools need to spend a lot of money to enter and do well

TRUTH: Most schools recycle props, sets and costumes or borrow from other participating schools and we encourage them to be resourceful. In 2006, a school new to the event qualified for the Brisbane Grand Final having spent just $800 on their production. The average spend per student annually is about $50, which covers their involvement in the event for up to eight months.

MYTH: Only schools in capital cities can take part and win

TRUTH: In 2006, nearly 40% of participating schools were from regional or remote areas. Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® holds events in both regional and capital areas and the National Champions Title has been won by regional schools on a number of occasions.

MYTH: Entering is a lot of hard work for 8 minutes on stage

TRUTH: The saying “nothing ventured, nothing gained” is one many students discover in their Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® journey. Although only eight minutes is spent on stage, students, teachers and the wider school community benefit from involvement in the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® experience for up to eight months before.

Participating students learn the value of teamwork, improve communication skills and increase resiliency compared to non-participants. Schools enjoy a more prominent school profile and student-teacher relationships are stronger. Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® is about the journey and the benefits it brings to students and teachers, not the end result.

MYTH: REC is only for schools with performing arts programs and dance students

TRUTH: Anyone can put together a performance and take part – school or community group. Science, English and PE teachers are often the driving forces behind a schools performance.

MYTH: REC is a private company that profits from the event

TRUTH: Rock Eisteddfod Challenge® is run by a not-for-profit Foundation and is registered with the Australian Taxation Office. It can receive tax deductible gifts. The Foundation is fully audited each year and its annual report is publicly available.