End of an era

It’s the end of an era! Ethan had his primary school graduation on Thursday. They still have 2 more days of school next week, but judging by what they did at school yesterday (getting their year books, signing each others’ T-shirts, playing sport and eating lots of junk food) I don’t think they’ll be doing very much!

I loved the graduation prizegiving. There were speeches from the principal and the chairman of the Board of Trustees. Certificates and trophies were presented for various sporting, art, musical, cultural, attitude/behavioural and academic achievements. Ethan was one of about half a dozen Year 6 students who received an award for Effort & Achievement. Such a great way to end his primary school experience! He was really surprised and happy to hear his name called out (we knew he was getting something, but he had no clue).

Finally, it was time for the big one … Dux! The deputy principal asked all the kids who they thought it would be, and they all yelled out, “Maddie!”. And Maddie it was. Afterwards, every single Year 6 student had their name called out to come up on stage and receive their “graduation certificate” from their teachers. So special.

At the end of the prizegiving, all the Year 6 children got up on stage and sang a beautiful song about “moving on”. Needless to say, there were a few tears shed by teachers and parents! I managed to get most of it on video. Ethan’s pretty much right in the middle of them all! Such a wonderful group of kids.

Ethan with his lovely teacher, Ms Grech. He is going to miss her!

Both the boys got fantastic end-of-year reports. Straight A’s all around, and they are both at or above National Standards in writing, reading and maths. They also received lovely “General Comments”. I was actually in tears after reading Tyler’s one … I think you will see why!

TYLER
Tyler is a well mannered and helpful individual. He has often sacrificed his own free time to assist class mates with their work. Tyler is a very caring unselfish boy and has a keen sense of justice and sportsmanship. Tyler’s excellent work ethic and willingness to ‘give things a go’ has served as inspiration to classmates the whole year through. Tyler is a very teachable and likeable young man and I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to have him in M2 this year.

ETHAN
Ethan is a capable and hardworking student. His work is always of a high standard, he is focused and eager to learn. Ethan is quiet but has become more confident throughout the year, often contributing relevant ideas to class discussions. He is a valuable member of the class and is respected by his class mates. It has been a pleasure teaching you this year Ethan, and I wish you all the very best for next year.

Tyler has had a male teacher this year, the first time either of my boys have had a male teacher (despite the fact that we have 6 of them at our school). Mr Niemand and Tyler hit it off straight away, and seem to have lots in common. Tyler really looks up to him, admires and respects him, and has even made noises about wanting to be a teacher himself one day. I know he is quite young to have career ambitions, but the fact that he is so inspired by his teacher speaks volumes about what a great guy he is. Tyler also found out who his teacher will be next year, and he’s very happy. Mrs Wenman is very arty and sporty, which is just PERFECT for him! Next year is going to be awesome for him, but I think he will really miss having his big brother at school. Year 4 is the year of Camp Bentzon (Kawau Island) and I’m sure Rob will be hoping to go as a parent helper again.

Looking back, 2012 has been a great year for both my boys. They have enjoyed school and had fantastic teachers. I always feel a bit sad at the end of each year, because I find change hard (no kidding; I have lived in this area my whole life, this is only the second house I have ever lived in, and I’ve been working at the same place for 14 years). But I know change needs to happen, and I am excited about what 2013 will hold for both Ethan and Tyler. Lots of firsts for Ethan, and some for Tyler as well. So I guess that means a few firsts for me as well! Better start psyching myself up, eh?

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