News
The 2026 edition of Ringing Voices, an anthology of student work, is now available. Ranging from poetry to short stories, and accompanied by student artwork, the pieces within the collection showcase the inspired minds of students from Years 5 to 12.
In the age of AI-generated writing, the significance of the human voice is paramount. We live at a time when automated responses are increasingly dominant, and the art of writing risks being lost beneath them. Yet this anthology stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to the fact that the human voice can still be captured, and that writing remains, at its core, a profoundly human endeavour. When given the opportunity, time, and space, the human voice can flourish in writing.
So why does the human voice matter so much in the writing process? The French philosopher Voltaire captured it best when he wrote, ‘Writing is the painting of the voice.’ It suggests that written words should capture the living qualities, rhythm, and tone of spoken speech, just as a painter captures an image on canvas. These words speak to the deeply creative and personal nature of writing, an act through which human thought, feeling, and imagination are given vibrant form.
This potential comes to life in the student work featured throughout this year’s anthology. From heartfelt reflections to imaginative storytelling, each piece captures a distinct sense of joy and depth drawn from the act of writing. With contributions from students across Years 5 to 12, the anthology showcases the creativity, insight, and individual perspectives of our young writers.
Throughout this year, our English program has continued to build on the momentum established in last year, with a focus on broadening students’ familiarity with a range of writing forms and styles. Drawing on carefully chosen mentor texts and supporting resources, students have been inspired to explore their own voices and refine their craft through a variety of prompts and stimuli. Central to our curriculum is the aspiration to cultivate confident, capable communicators, young people prepared to take creative risks and engage thoughtfully with the world around them through language.
Alongside the written pieces, this anthology also features an impressive collection of student artwork. These visual stories enhance the reading experience, each one offering its own interpretation and emotional depth. The cover, designed by Alaina Rumpf, our Year 12 Art Captain, captures the essence of this creative journey, depicting a Fintona student fully immersed in creation. She is turning the pages of a large book, yet the pages are blank, symbolising the boundless potential of the untold story. Her index finger is pointed towards the blank page, further representing the moment of creative decision, the instant before imagination takes shape and words begin to emerge.
We invite you to take your time with each page, letting the words and images carry you into the rich imagination and authentic voices of our students.
Michelle Maglitto
English Learning Area Leader
