“A closer look at these figures will show that last year 56% of the students were placed in the top two stream, hence this year, there is an improvement of 28%. I think it is very commendable. It is also very noticeable, that none of the students were placed in the remedial wing of the two secondary schools.”
Despite the improvement of the students, the principal observed that the year was very challenging as he attributed it primarily to the rotation that to the staff, lack of some essential facilities and the uncooperative attitude of some parents.
He added that the approach for providing instruction for the students was once again a holistic one and expressed, “However, being cognizant of the fact that children not only have different academic capabilities, but also different aptitudes, new programs and initiatives were taken to ensure that all of the students benefited according to their abilities and aptitudes.”
The ceremony, which was held under the patronage of Ms Humela Pemberton, saw nine girls and four boys being graduated from primary to secondary level with Tanya Brookes taking top position, not only as a girl but overall, and Jamal Andrew taking top boy position. It was graced with the presence of Junior Minister of Education, the Hon Livingston Herbert and officials of the Education Department as well as principals from primary and secondary schools.
Principal Williams in admonishing the students said, “Graduates, you are about to embark on a new phase in your education development. Be reminded that the road would not always be smooth. There would be pebbles, sometimes boulders, but you should never say die. Keep on persevering.”
He called upon them to remember their school motto, ‘Forward Ever, Backward Never’ saying, “You cannot win if you never start. Some of you have been model students, others have not. I admonish you to continue to ‘bruise your noses on the tree of knowledge.’”
“Remember, the common denominator to alleviate poverty, class and low self-esteem is a sound education. Never be weary in your quest to gather knowledge. Even the very crumbs from the table of knowledge you must partake of. Remember, your most timely theme for this afternoon ceremony, “Seek wisdom and knowledge in these troubled times.”
Former Principal Education Officer, Mrs. Hyleta Liburd, presented the Keynote address on issues based from the graduation theme, “Choose Wisdom and knowledge in these troubled times.”
Her sub-theme was “The Power of Choice” and called on the students to make wise decisions. She noted, “You have come a long way through school to reach this point, the crowning moment of your primary school career. You have made choices of your own and your teachers and parents have made many choices for you. Who you have become and your achievement is the result of those choices.”
“I want to submit to you that your character is the determining quality that will make the difference in not only your performance but in whom you become. As a reminder therefore, try building or continue building your character on these foundations: - respect, trustworthiness, responsibility, caring, fairness and patriotism. Seek wisdom and knowledge and make the best use of these. Make a good character your priority. It will serve you well.”
Education Officer, Mrs. Versalie Powell gave brief remarks, while past student of the school, Mr. Laurence Richards, chaired the ceremony. Ms Tanya Brookes who received prizes for best overall performance and best in social studies during the test of standard examination delivered the valedictory speech.
