What better way to begin the school year than by celebrating the creativity, curiosity, and independent thinking of our students!
We are delighted to share the first edition of Vox Discipulorum — The Voice of the Pupils — a new student newspaper founded, edited, directed, and designed by Grade 11 student Arianna Simoni, with contributions from fellow students across our school community.
This impressive inaugural edition is much more than a collection of articles. It represents something fundamental to the St. Stephen’s experience: the importance of student voice, independent thought, and the freedom to explore, question, and express diverse perspectives.
Inside the First Edition of Vox Discipulorum
Across eight pages, our young journalists tackle an extraordinary range of subjects, from school life and student representation to international affairs, civic engagement, politics, sustainability, arts, culture, and entertainment.
The opening edition features an insightful interview with our new Head of School, Maria Nunes, exploring her vision for St. Stephen’s and the importance of listening to students. Other articles examine the school's mobile phone policy, the influence of social media on political opinions, sustainable consumerism, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
Readers will also discover thoughtful cultural commentary on Bob Dylan and Anthony Bourdain, original poetry and creative writing, and international perspectives presented in Italian, French, and Chinese — a wonderful reflection of the linguistic and cultural diversity that defines our community. And for those looking for something lighter, there are crosswords, music recommendations, and games to enjoy.
Why Student Voice and Independent Thinking Matter
What makes Vox Discipulorum particularly meaningful is its commitment to creating space for different opinions, challenging questions, and conversations that matter. At a time when young people are navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world, opportunities to engage critically with local and global events, develop informed opinions, and respectfully consider different perspectives are more important than ever.
Student journalism encourages precisely these qualities. It gives young people a platform to examine the issues shaping their lives, challenge assumptions, celebrate creativity, and participate actively in the conversations taking place within their communities and beyond.
Celebrating Our Student Journalists
We extend our warmest congratulations to Arianna for her initiative, vision, and dedication in bringing this publication to life, and to all the talented student writers, artists, and contributors who helped make its first edition possible.
What a wonderful start to the school year! We eagerly look forward to the second edition and to hearing more from our students as they continue to explore, debate, and reflect on the important issues of our times and the world at large.
We encourage everyone in the St. Stephen’s community to take a moment to read and enjoy this remarkable student-led initiative.
Read the First Edition of Vox Discipulorum
For those on campus, printed copies are also available at the Front Desk.
What a pleasure to see our students making their voices heard!
