BSB Futures and the Post-School Journey

Graduates and their families were treated to emotive and inspiring speeches from Principal Melanie Warnes and John Knight, Vice-Principal & Head of Secondary School, before the students left their families to attend their sumptuous celebration dinner in the specially constructed marquee.

This year, 116 students from the Class of 22, impeccably dressed and brimming with pride, took to the stage one by one to rapturous applause in the school’s JR Hall. It was the largest contingent of graduating students in the school’s history and the packed hall echoed with jubilation as each of them was lauded for their achievements.

The graduation venue had to be moved from the traditional stage as our Year 13 numbers are so large now that not everyone could fit in there anymore. It is likely that even more students, around 140, will fill the venue next year. After the removal of the health restrictions of the previous two years, it was with a mixture of happiness and relief that we welcomed so many family members into the venue.

The event, hosted by the outgoing School Student Presidents, began with a champagne reception as proud parents, excited students and delighted staff mingled and shared stories in a relaxed but expectant atmosphere. The graduating students also had the opportunity to share a special moment with each other as formal photos were taken, creating photographic memories of enduring friendships and shared success.

During her speech which brought the formal ceremony to a close, Melanie spoke about the importance of community and family, and the energy that we can all draw from these relationships, especially in difficult circumstances such as those experienced over the previous two years. That energy, and the spirit of togetherness at BSB, she said, had been the driving force behind the commitment and resilience the students had shown to overcome the obstacles placed in their path and face the unprecedented challenges of recent times head on. “I cannot express how proud I am of all of you, students and staff, for your courage and resilience, your togetherness, and your willingness to adapt during those most trying of times,” she said, before concluding with a toast to the graduating students. “So, as you leave BSB, know where you have come from, appreciate where you have been and head confidently towards where you are going. Class of 2022, we are so proud of you. Good luck.”

After the difficulties of the last two years, it was a triumphant and jubilant return, providing everyone in attendance the opportunity to not only celebrate the success and hard work of the graduating students but the chance to share such a special moment together.