Angelina N. and Holly G., Year 8 students, with their mothers and the Lord Mayor of Parramatta City Council, at the launch of the book - 'The James Martin in My World: A Treasury of True Stories of Struggle and Triumph written by Parramatta Youth.'
Two Year 8 students have had their stories selected to be published in a book written by Parramatta youth.
Catherine McAuley has had two Year 8 students have their stories selected to be published in a book titled, ‘The James Martin in My World: A Treasury of True Stories of Struggle and Triumph written by Parramatta Youth.’ Mrs J. Rehayem, Leader of Learning Wellbeing Year 8 has written the below report:
James Martin (1820 - 1886) was the son of immigrants and lived in servants’ quarters in Parramatta. As there was no local high school, James walked 22 kms to attend school in Sydney. James went on to become a politician, barrister, Chief Justice and NSW Premier. In fact, Martin Place in the city is named after him and a bronze statue of James Martin is located in Parramatta Square.
Angelina N. and Holly G. standing by the statue of James Martin outside of Parramatta Library
In recognition of James Martin, Parramatta City Council and the Lysicrates Foundation organised The James Martin: In My World Writing Competition and invited all Year 7 and Year 8 students in State, Catholic and Independent schools in the Parramatta LGA to enter. The writing competition required the students to write a 500 word true story about someone who has faced hardship and triumphed. Thirty entries were selected to be published online and in a book.
Congratulations to Holly G., 8 Ryan and Angelina N., 8 Veritas for being selected for publication. Ms K. Lorenzutta, Teacher Librarian, attended the launch of the book with the students and their parents.
Joanne Rehayem | Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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