Credit for young writer

By Sarah Schwager
A GRADE three Clyde student has put his essay writing skills to the test against kids nearly twice his age.
Luke Aitken did not realise an international privacy competition was actually meant for secondary school students and so put in an entry.
The Hillcrest Christian College student was told of the competition, which was part of Privacy Week last month, by his cousin who lives in Sydney.
He was encouraged to enter by his mum and so got busy penning his entry.
While Luke, 9, was informed that he was too young to be in contention for the prizes, which included a laptop computer and gift vouchers, the Privacy Commissioner for Victoria Helen Versey was so impressed with the entry that she came to the college and personally presented Luke with a special certificate.
Luke said his parents and teacher could not have been prouder.
“They were pretty impressed,” he said.
“And it was pretty good. I was presented with a certificate at the school assembly. I met the lady and shook hands with her. My parents were really proud of me.”
Luke was also presented with $50 cash and a $50 book voucher for his efforts.
Luke said he definitely did not regret entering the competition.
“I want to thank my mum for encouraging me and my dad.”
Luke said while he liked English and writing essays, maths was still his favourite subject.