Italian

2026 Dante Alighieri Poetry Competition

Recently, twenty students competed in Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition where we memorised and recited a poem in Italian.

Mia, Hannah, Mikaela, Kaavya, Michelle, Michaela and I were selected to represent our school at the State Finals. As we were among the top 10% of students in Victoria, we travelled to the University of Melbourne to recite our poems once again before a panel of judges.

Imagine our surprise when not one, but two of us made it through to the second round, where only five students were chosen to recite their poems again. Last week, we were thrilled to find out that I had been awarded second place in the Year 9 cohort. My family and I have now been invited to attend the Prize Winners Ceremony, which will be held later this year.

The judges commented that it was a true privilege to witness the exceptional depth of talent, passion and dedication demonstrated by students.

We all felt incredibly proud, and it was a unique and refreshing experience that took us beyond our ordinary school lives. It gave us the opportunity to meet and connect with other students who share a passion for Italian, so it became about much more than just winning or performing.

Shenaya
Year 9 Student

Languages Leader Perspective

Congratulations to all finalists Shenaya, Mia, Hannah, Mikaela, Kaavya, Michelle, Michaela. Simply earning a place in the finals is a massive achievement and a testament to your hard work and talent.

The judges commented that it was a true privilege to witness the exceptional depth of talent, passion and dedication demonstrated by students. The level of performance made their job extraordinarily difficult, sparking vigorous discussion and debate to select the prize winners.

Congratulations to Shanaya who achieved 2^nd place for Year 9 as an overall prize-winner. Shanaya and her family will be invited to a Prize-winners Ceremony later this year.

Well done to our students. you should be immensely proud of what you have accomplished.

Lorenza Arestia
Languages Learning Leader