By Lucy M. Gowdie, Head of School
In a space that I would usually reserve for strategic updates, I take this opportunity to celebrate this momentous occasion in the life of our graduates and their families.
It is well known that the Diploma Programme, in all of its rigour, presents many challenges for our young people. Its robust design and renowned depth are often considered a harder year than the first year of college.
"While we know the quality of our curriculum is exceptional, we know more about the quality of our teachers, and today, I honour them for bringing our young people to the end of the chapter of learning at our school."
Educators do not work typical days. Their lives are defined by the school bell, and their work often lasts long into the evening, as they correct papers, answer emails, and address issues that have arisen throughout the day. The uniqueness of this work is often misunderstood, and only those who exist in the education space can understand the number of hats we wear in one single day.
We are amongst other things, mediators, coaches, mentors, administrators, designers, innovators, assessors, event organisers, role models, facilitators… the list goes on. But the heart of who we are is teachers who want to inspire in our young people a passion to reach their full potential through the subjects that we teach.
It is our sincere belief that we have done this with the Graduating Class of 2023. That we have instilled in them a sense of self and the ability to drive hard towards their dreams. They are a cohort of respectful, creative, disciplined young people, and we are excited to join their families tomorrow to celebrate their achievements.
It would be remiss of me not to thank Mr. James Penstone, Mrs. Elinor Osborne, and Ms. Alexandra Carlin, for their leadership, their support, and their guidance of our young people, in this, their final year at the School. I pay homage to them for their belief in every individual who graduated and their commitment to their individual success.
And finally, to the Graduating Class of 2023, thank you. For the gift of your character, for your resolve, and for the contribution you have made to our school. I leave you with the words these words:
