The 2026 Halton School Scrabble Tournament will be a qualifying event for the Toronto-area School Scrabble Championship. Details of the other qualifying events will be announced shortly.
The event will take place at Milton Public Library, Sherwood Branch, at 6355 Main St W, Milton, ON L9T 0S5. This event will be hosted in partnership with the Milton Public Library.
Format
The Qualifiers will have a similar format to tournaments from previous years with the emphasis on friendly rivalry. There will be a variety of prizes for being a good sport, theme words, and participation.
3 rounds
Games played 2 v 2
25 minutes total for each team
Divisions are arranged by grades: 5-6 (Mid-low), 7-8 (Mid-high)
Lexicon: NSSL 2023
Game equipment will be provided. You can find docs on how to play on our website. Your players should have been playing a little bit prior to the tournament as we do not have the capacity to teach them the basic rules during the event, but do not let that discourage you from participating as we strive to make it inclusive and fun for all.
Please review the School Scrabble® Rules Quick Reference here. Right-click on the link and choose Save As.
Lunch
Students and teachers should pack a (peanut-free) lunch and snacks. Please note the lunch time in the schedule below. We recommend students bring a snack as well. We usually try to provide some healthy snacks too.
Schedule
9:30am
Check-in and Announcements
10:00am
Games begin: Round 1
11am
Round 2
12pm
Lunch
12:30pm
Round 3
1:30pm
Awards Presented
2:00pm
Exit
Prizes
Numerous prizes will be awarded for sportsmanship, high plays, theme words, and participation. Top teams will also qualify for the GTA City Finals (details TBA). We also provide personalized digital certificates for all players after the event that you can print and present to them at your school.
Registration
Rosters/Teams
There is a maximum of 6 PAIRS per school (12 players), but you may request to send more than that by emailing info@schoolscrabble.ca. If you have a player that lacks a partner, let us know and we may be able to arrange a partner from another school. If players require any specific accommodations to make it more accessible, please let us know.
Media
In order to continue to grow the local competitive SCRABBLE® scene, members of the media are invited to visit the events. Therefore, all players must also present a completed Student Media Release Consent form. Copies of existing HDSB or HCDSB forms may be used or you may download a form HERE. If you have further questions, please contact info@schoolscrabble.ca.
Entry fees
Entry fees are $5/player (Canadian dollars). Entry fees can be accepted by cash or cheque at the door, or email money transfer to info@schoolscrabble.ca. A receipt will be provided.
How to sign up
Schools are asked to complete the registration form prior to February 6, 2026. If you are a student, approach your teacher or school administration to encourage them to start a school scrabble program to participate.
