Senior English Classes Attend Adelaide Writers’ Week

On Friday February 28th, twenty-one of our talented senior English students – accompanied by four dedicated staff members – flew to Adelaide to participate in the annual Writer’s Week festival. Over four enriching days, our students attended a variety of literature sessions hosted by iconic Australian authors and presenters.

Our students engaged in high-level conversations with influential figures in Australian society, representing our school with immense pride. They purchased and had books signed, asked insightful questions, and left with invaluable perspectives and memories.

A highlight of the trip was a special meet-and-greet with Markus Zusak, the critically acclaimed author of The Book Thief, which our Year 11 students are currently studying. In celebration of the novel’s twentieth anniversary, Markus invited our students to a private session before his public presentation, where they had the opportunity to ask questions and discuss writing. He even gave a special shout-out to our students and staff during his lecture, saying “You have made my week!”. Our students returned home on Monday March 3rd, exhausted but inspired by their incredible experiences.

As the leader of the English learning area, I am incredibly proud of these young adults who embraced discomfort and asked mature, meaningful questions in front of audiences of over 500 people. They truly embraced what it means to be “Crew” at Port Lincoln High School. A heartfelt thank you to my colleagues – Mrs. Casie Richardson, Ms. Holly Dufek and Ms. Caitlin Randall – who made this all possible and continue to inspire our students every day.

More information in relation to this trip will be presented by students at our school Open Night in Week 9.

~ Mr. Hayden Bennett (English/HASS/Languages Curriculum Leader)