Year 9 has graduation

The Brisbane Water Secondary College Year 9 graduation assembly was held on Thursday, December 13, with students, their families, friends and teachers celebrating their achievements.

Students were presented on stage with their yearly report and certificate with a shake of the principal's hand.

"This occasion was especially significant because campus principal Mr Gasper was retiring at the end of the year," said head teacher Ms Sheree Gilchrist.

"Certificates are graded (Gold, Silver, Bronze and Attainment) and are based on our Core School Values of respect, commitment and relationships.

"The Graduation Program has been developing since its introduction in 2010.

"This year, students were issued with a PB Booklet aimed at encouraging students to achieve their personal best by self-monitoring their progress each term.

"With the support of their team leader and parents, students evaluated their adherence to the Core School Values and made changes when needed.

"Regular class meetings and individual conferences with the deputy and team leaders were held.

"The gymnasium was overflowing and some parents were required to listen to the ceremony from outside.

"Students were respectful and smartly attired in their school uniform.

"The assembly included a fantastic presentation of photos of students since they started in Year 7.

"The captains' speeches were sincere, thought-provoking and eloquent.

"It is hard to believe they are only 15 years of age.

"Students were presented with a beautiful graduation cake that was later enjoyed as part of morning tea on the front lawn, along with parents and teachers.

"Despite the enormous preparation required to put on a formal ceremony like this, it makes it all worth-while when I witnessed students thanking their teachers and laughing as they reminisced about the year that was.

"Hugs and tears all round as students made their way off Umina campus for the very last time," said Ms Gilchrist.

Email, 31 Dec 2012

Sheree Gilchrist, BWSC