Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) has announced the winners from a record number of entries in its annual Student Poetry Competition.
More than 850 poems totalling well over 100,000 words were submitted – the largest number since the competition began in 2020. Entries came from students in Foundation to Year 12 at schools across Victoria.
Many of the winning poems explored the optional theme of ‘awe’.
Some reflected on the vastness of the universe or the depth of the sea. Others, like Year 6 Presbyterian Ladies’ College student Emily Lam, shared quiet revelations about the world around them.
“You ask – is it the Niagara Falls?
The Sistine Chapel?
My friend, yes, for some that would be true,
But for me, awe resides in the quietest of moments –
in infinite places if you know where to look.
Now, for sunset, there’s no better place
than the Murray River
bobbing softly, languorously, on the deck of a moored houseboat.”
— From The Meaning of Awe, by Emily Lam
The sheer number and quality of poems submitted made it harder than ever for ISV’s competition judges to assess the entries.
“We were thrilled not just with the number of entries, but also their lyricism and insight,” they said.
“We read so many memorable lines, and while not everyone could be a winner, we hope that each student found the experience a rewarding one, that encourages them to write and read more poetry in the future.”
ISV Chief Executive Ms Rachel Holthouse said she was moved by the sensitivity and creativity of the young writers.
“These poems show how passionate, sensitive and articulate young people can be when we are prepared to listen,” Ms Holthouse said.
“When schools give their students the opportunity to read great literature, analyse film texts, and explore art in all its forms, we shouldn’t be surprised when they embrace an opportunity like our poetry competition.
“The popularity of the competition is a tribute not only to the young poets, but to the teachers who have nurtured their creativity.”
ISV’s Student Poetry Competition, now in its fifth year, is open to students in all schools (Independent, Government and Catholic) and is a highlight of ISV’s arts learning program.
Below: Amelia Daniel, Woodleigh School, recites her winning poem in the Year 7-8 category, Laughter and the Little Things.
