Clyde North Campus News
The 2020 Graduation Ceremony, a wonderful example of resilience, courage and joy.
Not so long ago we were unsure if or how we could celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2020. Once again, we seemed to be faced with yet another unintended consequence of COVID 19. Having emerged from remote learning, would we now have to reset zoom as the new stage for our Graduating class?
Much time and energy were spent drafting and reviewing plans, options, and ideas to ensure that we could be COVIDSafe and provide the class of 2020 along with their parents and families the best possible celebration. Along this journey I must thank the year 12 College Captains along with the other year 12 students who were so supportive and flexible in the planning of their Graduation. They showed great resilience in facing the many knock backs of their clever and innovative ideas, but which were unfortunately not COVIDSafe compliant. The captains showed great courage launching their simple but classic idea of wearing ‘what I would have worn to Valedictory’ to the outdoor COVIDSafe year 12 morning tea. And it paid off, the wonderful and stylish array of formal wear worn on Monday, 29 October 2020 would have easily suited the runways of Fashion Week in Paris. I must say however that first prize of best dressed probably went this year to the boys, and their wonderful suits. To be fair to the girls, my restrictions on footwear and no strapless dresses did limit their choices somewhat. It was a wonderful morning, with a pre-package cup cake for each year 12 student and staff member. This morning tea is traditionally held in the staffroom with the students suppling cakes, pastries and other delights. This event symbolises the critical connections teachers and students have made over six years of schooling. It recognises the year 7 teacher, the House Leader and Learning Advisor right through to the final group of teachers, the VCE and VCAL teachers. We could agree that whilst the venue and food may have been different the tradition, spirit and symbolism of this very special event was not lost.
And the joy came when we were finally able to go forward with a Graduation Ceremony. Yes, we had to go to the Cranbourne Campus to use the Hall and yes, we were not able to invite family or friends or staff other than the House Leaders, but what joy we shared live through the technological expertise of the teams lead by Mr Stephen Bloomer and Mr John Phillips as the event was live streamed across homes, workplaces and classrooms. The joy was reflected in the nervousness of each student as they entered the Hall to be presented to Mr Black and their community. The joy was reflected in the tears of the students and those at home as the significance of this final event became a reality, and the joy was reflected in the laughter, clapping, cheering and the throwing of the special 2020 Graduation Mortar Boards. As each mortar board flew into the air one could feel the power of the joy, resilience, and courage that were the true markers of the graduating class of 2020. Congratulations and thank you.
A special thank you
Much of the work behind the scenes in preparing our graduating class is done by their House Leaders. The traditional House Lunch went ahead after much planning to ensure COVIDSafe compliance and very special House farewells were zoomed across Tutor Groups to ensure that all members of each House were able to say their goodbyes and best wishes to the year 12 students. Whilst we did not have every element in the same format as tradition, we lost none of the spirit and generosity that is characteristic of this very special time.
Good luck to all of our year 12 students as they move forward with exams and other new beginnings including TAFE, and employment. And finally thank you to the parents, carers and guardians who have trusted us with your child, please know how much we have appreciated and valued your support.
A couple of reminders:
Whilst we are not conducting temperature testing at the college, our commitment to ensuring everyone maintains COVIDSafe hygiene practices remains critical.
So remember ….
- If unwell stay home
And these important reminders designed by students who thought it appropriate to share these messages in other languages to support our diverse community, because we are all in this together.
Sanitise always Keep your social distance Always wear a mask
I wish you all a safe and productive week.
Julie Banda
Deputy Principal - Head of Clyde North Campus