Ten preparation sessions. First-time participants. And then: Prague.

The students at Josef-Schwarz-Schule Erlenbach demonstrated at the World Scholar’s Cup what is possible when language, critical thinking, and team spirit come together.

The contest is an international academic competition with over 50,000 participants from more than 67 countries, focusing on debates, collaborative writing, and quiz formats.

For the Josef-Schwarz-Schule, this was their very first time participating—and they did so with just ten preparation sessions. Furthermore, the students competed against older and more experienced participants and impressed across the board:

- All four teams qualified for the Global Round

- The school received team trophies as well as several individual and team awards

- One student received the Jac Khor Award, the highest individual honor

- One participant was the youngest person to compete in this year’s Showcase Debate

- Three students presented their debate analysis to the entire audience, clearly and confidently

For us, this is above all a sign: We believe in young people, and we give them the tools they need, because:

We promote English in everyday life.
We foster critical thinking.
We provide space for debate.
And in doing so, we strengthen something that goes beyond results: self-confidence.

The next step is the Global Round, featuring around 900 participants from all over the world.

And with the chance to qualify for the Tournament of Champions at Yale University.

We congratulate the students and teachers at Josef-Schwarz-Schule on these fantastic results and wish them every success in the next round.

Ten preparation sessions. First-time participation. And then: Prague.

The students from the Josef-Schwarz-Schule in Erlenbach took part in the World Scholar’s Cup, an international competition with over 50,000 participants from more than 67 countries.

Focus: debates, collaborative writing, and quiz formats.

And even though they were up against older and more experienced teams, they really delivered:

- All 4 teams have qualified for the Global Round

- Team trophies + several individual and team awards

- Jac Khor Award (highest individual honor)

- Showcase Debate: our participant was the youngest this year ✅

For us, this shows how important it is to strengthen English, critical thinking, and debating skills early on—and, in turn, self-confidence.

Next up is the Global Round with around 900 participants. We’re keeping our fingers crossed!