When St Michael’s Catholic Primary School Belfield student Leonardo Smith decided to send his creative writing story to NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, he wasn’t expecting much of a response from one of the busiest people in the country.
Yet the Year 2 student was given a pleasant surprise when he received a personal handwritten note from the Premier herself.
“You are such a talented writer!” wrote the Premier. “When you publish your first book please make sure to send me a signed copy!”
![Handwritten note from Gladys Berejiklian](https://sydcatholicschools.nsw.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2021/09/Letter-two.jpg)
The Premier’s handwritten note.
The path to getting noticed
As part of an assessment task on narrative writing, Leonardo had penned a heroic tale about a young girl named Gladys who overcomes a series of obstacles – inspired by the Olympics – to save her kingdom from despair.
Leonardo’s teacher, Emily McKay, said she was blown away by his creativity and thought it would be a great idea to send it to the Premier’s office.
“As I read the story, I thought the Premier would love to read this,” explained Miss McKay.
“I asked Leonardo if he’d like me to send it to her but he said, ‘No, I’ll do it!’”
![Creative writing story](https://sydcatholicschools.nsw.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2021/08/In-line-full-1.jpg)
An excerpt from Leonardo’s story.
Mum: ‘We honestly weren’t expecting a reply’
Leonardo’s mother, Laura Smith, said they were taken aback when the letter from the Premier arrived.
“We honestly weren’t expecting a reply at all so when she sent a kind, personalised letter in return Leonardo was very excited,” said Mrs Smith.
“He really loves school; he’s always trying to challenge himself and do his best.”
A deserved reward
Kim McCue, Principal at St Michael’s, said the letter was a deserved reward for Leonardo’s talents.
“We’re just so proud of him; this is an incredible piece of writing for a child,” said Mrs McCue.
“For the Premier to write back in the busy world we live in at the moment is really, really touching.”
By: DOMENIC TRIMBOLI