Library News

Empowering Digital Citizens: Optus Digital Thumbprint visits VSC for an informative incursion 

Recently, over the last several weeks, Vermont Secondary College had the privilege of welcoming Dom, an engaging and humorous presenter from the esteemed Optus Digital Thumbprint program — a national program dedicated to empowering young people with the knowledge and skills to be responsible and safe in the online environment. 

Not only was the session informative, but it was also fun and enlightening. With a lively presentation full of relatable humour and interactive activities, we explored the crucial topic of online safety. A highlight was an AI image challenge, where students attempted to recreate Dom's side-splittingly absurd prompt: a T-Rex sprinting on a red racetrack. What followed was a series of crazy (but creative!) AI interpretations that had the room in hysterics — while also sparking interesting debate about the possibilities and limitations of technology. Another was a challenge where we had to draw a cat and a dog, when a classmate I shall not name drew a rather rushed stick figure of what appeared to be a disfigured cat, which sent the whole room in hysterics. 

It was more than an enjoyable visit; the Digital Thumbprint workshop had a lasting effect. It enlightened us how our online activities create our digital footprint, and why it's important to be aware, respectful, and in control of our digital footprint. From data privacy to social media, each student left with useful tips and a greater awareness of how to be safe in an ever-connected world. 

As Digital Ambassador, I was delighted to see our school take on such a valuable initiative. We would like to thank Dom and the Optus team for making available such a valuable and memorable experience. Programs like these are helping to create the next generation of respectful, responsible digital citizens — and we're honoured to have been a part of it. 

Ashar A, Year 7 Digital Ambassador 

Image by Emaan N, Year 8.

What is a stereotype? A stereotype is grouping people into categories because of their race, appearance, religion, and gender. This is harmful, disrespectful, and not okay! 

Every person is entirely unique. Every person has different interests, characteristics and personalities. 

Some examples of stereotypes include: 

Athletic kids 

Nerds 

Overachievers 

Teacher’s pet 

Know it all 

Class Clown 

Rebel 

Please speak with respect! 

If you hear some jokes about stereotypes, don’t laugh, and don’t ignore it. Speak up and be the change! This is something that is happening in our school and planet. A little change can make a big difference. 

Aritha W, Year 7

HARRY POTTER TRIVIA QUIZ 

It was great to see so many students attend the Library Harry Potter quiz this week. 

Congratulations to our three winners, especially Ebenezer who had an amazing winning streak!

Coming soon 

Ancient Greece and Rome trivia quiz!

Please see Library staff for more details.

Any year 7 and 8 students interested in participating in the 2025 PRIME MINISTER'S SPELLING BEE please see Ms. Dunkley for more information. The competition will be in term 3.