Class of 2021 graduation reflections

I started at Yiramalay after I completed Induction 40 in 2019. I really enjoyed the induction especially sharing my culture with Wesley students and catching up with Induction 40 students in Melbourne, sharing memories of our time together. Highlights of my time here include playing footy with the Wesley  students and building relationships with students in Learning in Residence. The biggest challenge for me was being away from home, being away from my people and my culture. Speaking confidently to others and building relationships and friendships are the most important things I have learnt while at Yiramalay.

For new students coming to Melbourne, I would advise them to get out of their comfort zone. Going to Melbourne you will not be comfortable all the time. Branch out and make friends, build relationships, take everything in, you’re only there for three years. Put your head down and study hard and appreciate the opportunities that come your way. I have not been able to attend the Graduation Dinner in Broome as I am in Queensland training with the Gold Coast Suns Academy and intend to pursue a career in football.

Everything that was done for me has not gone unnoticed by me, so I want to thank my parents for their support, they are the best. I am appreciative and grateful to Matt, Sean, and Kym and all the staff and teachers at the Studio School, LiR and Wesley College who have supported me over the three years that I shared with them - my second family.

Jason Baird (OW2021)

The pathway that Jason took at Yiramalay was at first a roller-coaster ride which has given him a sense of self belief and achievement now that the journey is complete. He is proud, excited and overwhelmed to have completed Year 12. I hope Jason will be confident and a bold, strong leader and take charge in any field or pathway that he undertakes in life. Jason loved being around his colleagues while in Melbourne, he was outspoken and outgoing, with a ‘I can do this’ attitude, he was in a different world when he is with his peers and I am filled with pride for him. Jason also connected with his culture while he was at the Studio School, speaking Yolngu Matha and sharing his culture, it made him confident and proud of who he was.

COVID-19 was very challenging for me and Jason, he was doubting himself and I had to support him through it, no matter what. The Studio School is a place where relationships and connections with students and their families are allowed to grow. Students know they are heard and that people around them understand who they are and where they are in their educational journey and their journey as young people.

Alison Wunungmurra, Parent