The final day of School for our Class of 2019 was full of heartfelt reflections, celebrations of the girls' endeavours and their journey together.
Parents joined us for breakfast followed by an Assembly where the girls shared reflections along with dedications to their parents. Touching moments for all. A tradition at Ruyton is the themed dress-up on the Year 12's final day, with the Class of 2019 choosing a Super Mario Bros theme. This iconic game sees Mario overcoming all kinds of obstacles to make it to the finish line, a metaphor for the journey of school.
Hiscock Court was awash with colour, the Courtyard Café festooned with red, white and blue balloons, and of the blue and red of the girls' heavily painted dresses in the style of Mario’s overalls. Staff and students signed the girls' dresses throughout the morning as a treasured keepsake.
The traditional singing of the School song and final countdown on the Hiscock Court stage at lunchtime, was met with shrieks of joy and some tears as the whole school gathered to say good bye and good luck.
The day culminated with the Valedictory Dinner at Ormond College. The Class of 2019 along with parents and staff heard beautiful reflections from the speakers, including Olivia Harper and Jaqueline Du - 2019 School Co-captains, Claire Ong - Class Valedictorian, and Mr Nigel Cadywould, who delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the parents.
Whilst the mood across the day was joyful, it was also emotional as these fine young women recognised the power of the support and friendship, they have experienced as part of the Ruyton family. After 15 years of schooling; of adventurous learning, curiosity and discovery, these young women are about to embark on the next chapter of their lives; one they are well prepared for and ready to embrace wholeheartedly.
We sincerely thank the Class of 2019 for their positive and inclusive student leadership and its positive contribution to the School. These young women have led with courage and ardour; standing up for what they believe in, taking action and making a real difference. They have truly led from the heart. Part of their gift to the School has been to leave the motto that inspired them this year emblazoned on the steps leading from the Courtyard Café to the Jacobs Gillies building. ‘Be fearless in pursuit of what sets your soul on fire’ A most fitting legacy of their leadership to inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
On behalf of the Ruyton community I wish each and every one of our Year 12 girls well as they move into the final exam phase. We know that they will strive to achieve their personal best and that as a community we are proud of their individual endeavours and achievements. Most importantly we are proud of who they are; of their grit, determination, kindness and compassion.
We thank our Year 12 parents for their wonderful contribution to our Ruyton community. They have been a driving force for our parent support groups over many years and active supporters of their daughter’s education.
We wish the Class of 2019 love and luck. We will miss you dearly; and we will hold you in our hearts forever.
Ms Linda Douglas
Principal
Ruyton Girls' School
October 2019