Celebrating a love of reading

On Friday 21 November, some of our Year 9 students came together for the SSC Reader’s Cup competition, an event that highlighted their enthusiasm for literature and teamwork. Fifteen dedicated readers had spent weeks preparing and collaborating in groups to explore this year’s selection of novels: A Wreck of Seabirds, Inkflower, Six Impossible Things and When We Are Invisible. These thought-provoking titles offered rich themes and engaging narratives.

The day was filled with spirited competition, creative risk-taking and plenty of laughter as our students tackled trivia rounds and team-building challenges. Beyond the contest, the event fostered friendships and a shared appreciation for the joy of reading.

Celebrating achievement

Competition for the top spot was fierce, with the team that called themselves ‘Chaly’ consisting of team members Harriet Hoogland, Caitlyn Kang, Annie Cordony-Jones and Jessica Carristo taking first place. This was closely followed by our runner-up team, ‘The Heathers’ consisting of Willow Harris, Phoebe Cunneen and Madeleine Vidovic. 

Willow Harris reflected on the day: 

Being able to participate in the Reader’s Cup was such a privilege; laughing with my friends over our sentences, debating the validity of certain answers, and reading the selected books are all experiences I never would have gotten if I didn’t sign up. Connecting with peers whilst competing against them in such a context was brilliant and hilarious, making it an incredibly special day. I highly recommend future Year 9s to jump at this opportunity and sign up, as it was uniquely wholesome and exciting.

Josie Chui reflected on the day: 

Initially, I wasn’t sure what I had just signed myself up to when my friends persuaded me to go write my name down under a team list. I was so unsure and nervous about the timing and if I could even finish two books before the day. However, I am so glad that I did sign up. The day was filled with fun quizzes and questions about the books, as well as general knowledge (that most of us didn’t know), and hilarious icebreakers. It was a really fun and lighthearted experience that brought out competition and friendly tension between the groups. I think I can say on behalf of at least my group (which we, for some reason, named The Potato Farm), the day was extremely entertaining and a nice way to wind down from the stress of the year. I would totally and wholeheartedly recommend this program for the next Potato Farmers!

Congratulations to all our Year 9 readers for their commitment and enthusiasm. Events like these remind us that reading is not just an academic skill – it’s a lifelong source of connection and joy.

 Year 9 students showcasing teamwork and literary knowledge during the SSC Reader’s Cup competition