Student Spotlight: Jason in Year 7
Interview with Sarah Horne, Communications and Community Manager
Jason, a Year 7 student at LANNA, has already achieved what many can only dream of—authoring a book, creating stop-motion films with original soundtracks, crafting headphones, and placing 2nd in a prestigious science competition. In this interview, he shares his creative process, what drives his passion for learning, and how LANNA has supported him in his journey.
Your journey at LANNA has been remarkable so far! Can you share what inspired you to write a book this year, and what it’s about?
It all happened last year. Well, actually before that – way before that! It was the first time I was reading a chapter book. I read The Famous Five. It gave me ideas to write my own book about children and dogs, so I started…but then I didn’t have any more ideas so I stopped. But then one day, I had an idea – just about my own dog! So then I started writing it again.
How long did it take you to write and can you tell us about the process?
10 months. I would write every weekend and in the morning. I have lots of ideas in the morning, I’m not sure why. After I wrote it I had to design the cover, which was super hard. I did a lot of research about the design and size. And even before the cover, I had to check and change a lot of things like indentation, text size, and font. I had to revise and re-check everything a lot.
You’ve also created two impressive stop-motion films last year, both with soundtracks. How did that experience help you with your creativity and technical skills in storytelling?
Writing a book helped me to be creative. In Art class in Year 6 we talked a lot about making stop motion films. So, we were doing them at school. I had the idea to do them at home too. I kept trying to make it better so I added soundtracks… One day I was sick at home and just did it!
Wow. And, not only that but you took on the challenge of making a pair of headphones this year?
So, basically – we need headphones at school! I’ve been making stuff since I was five years old. I was creating robot cars then and I kept doing it, and so now I’m just working on bigger things.
Another on your list of accomplishments is that you placed 2nd in Thailand in a science competition. How did LANNA help you prepare for that?
Well, in Year 6 I used the library because there are a lot of books about science! Those books helped to inspire me to do the science competition.
How do you stay motivated and organised when working on so many creative and academic projects?
I like it and want to do it all! After my schoolwork, I just want to do more things.
What role have your teachers and the school environment at LANNA played in supporting your talents and interests?
The teachers give me chances to show my talents. For example, last year I got to play my guitar in front of the flagpole for a Primary Assembly in the morning.
That’s right! I forgot you’re also a musician. So, of all the projects you’ve completed so far, from films to headphones to your book, which one are you most proud of and why?
My book! It was the hardest out of all the projects and took up the most time.
Plus it’s in English and you’re not a native English speaker. That’s amazing. What advice do you have for other students that want to be creative?
Well, you better start off with something you want to do! Start with something you like and learn about it, study it.
Do you have any other upcoming projects?
Yes, a lot! I’m working on some films. And, I’m writing a second and third book. And for my robots, I’m making a robot dog!
Jason’s remarkable achievements reflect his passion for creativity and learning, as well as the supportive environment at LANNA that nurtures his diverse talents. With exciting projects already in the works, his journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next!
