Ray Pisani, Principal of Marian College, notes that this year has been challenging for all people around the world, especially so in a school setting. Students have found school life very different. Some have thrived through remote learning while others have found it to be a struggle in their learning and wellbeing.
“For our Year 12s, their final year of secondary school has been disrupted and they haven’t had the opportunity to experience many of the important occasions that make the year special.
“Brigidine Celebration Day, the annual athletics day, the school musical production, Year 12 Retreat, College assemblies, Leadership Program, Awards Night, graduation ceremony, the end-of-year 12 Celebration Day as well as the learning program have all required a re-imagining of how these events and activities could be realised.
“It is important to acknowledge the resilience and creativity of the Senior Student Leadership Group who, with support of peers and staff, was able to ensure that the majority of the events could be held in some way.
“Marian College was able to organise a Graduation Ceremony and Celebration Day. Graduation was streamed into family homes and the night incorporated a prayer liturgy, the presentation of the graduands with their certificates, and addresses by the Principal, and the College Lamp Bearers (school captains), Dahlia Cremona and Farah Besisou.
“The Year 12’s Celebration Day had the students dressed up in costumes and sharing a prepared breakfast together. They also affirmed the value of the experience they have shared over the years at Marian by presenting to the entire student body a celebration video they produced.
“This day incorporates the announcement of the new Lamp Bearers and this year the “handing over of the Lamp of Learning” was live streamed into classrooms. The special moment was especially poignant this year – we all desperately need a sign of hope, light and promise for the future.
“The final part of Celebration Day was the official farewell that would normally include a guard of honour by all students and staff. We were still able to say our goodbyes but on a smaller scale, with the wonder of technology coming to support in transmitting the farewell to the rest of the school.
“This year has been very hard for many and we are very aware that, especially for our Year 12s, it has been challenging. Through all of what has transpired in 2020, and the experiences that the Year 12s shared, we remember and congratulate them on what they have achieved in giving witness to the school motto, Strength and Gentleness.
Marian College, 196 Glengala Road, Sunshine West. Inquiries: 9363 1711 or www.mariansw.catholic.edu.au
