Eighteen primary schools took part in Count It, an initiative of The Courier, at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts yesterday.

The numeracy event, held in the lead up to Numeracy and Literacy Week, tested the mathematical knowledge of pupils in a battle to be the best.

Newspapers in Education program co-ordinator and Count It co-ordinator Liz Zelencich said the response from schools had been fantastic.

"It was a chance to showcase the great skills and knowledge of the kids from Catholic, state and private schools in Ballarat, and give them an opportunity to come together and share in a great experience," she said.

"They're still learning in a supportive, but competitive atmosphere."

Each school had a team of four pupils and a support crew of 20 pupils to cheer on their peers.

There was also a group of Year 10 students from Loreto College who volunteered their time to co-ordinate the groups.

The crowd was entertained by MC Stig Wemyss, who said it was a brilliant event for the schools to get involved in.

"All of the students showed remarkable talent," he said.

"I was really impressed with the standard and enthusiasm for maths, the kids were so excited like it was some Olympic event."

Avoca Primary School was the the winner, with St Patrick's Primary School and St Augustine's Creswick tying for second place.

"We started in 2004 with Spell It and this year we had a different focus with Count It. Next year we're going to run Where is It?, which will be a geography based event," Ms Zelencich said.

"It was a really positive day and everyone had a great time."