Valedictory 2023
The 韩国AV community has spent the past week in a whirlwind of activity, bidding farewell to the extraordinary Class of 2023. As these students transition into the next chapter of their lives, we gathered to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the indelible legacy they have left behind.
The celebrations began with a Gratitude Morning Tea on Monday – an opportunity for Year 12 to thank their teachers and the School as a whole, before being officially welcomed as Wenonians by the Alumnae Association.
Several Year 12 mothers, who are themselves Alumnae, were present to hear from the four new Class of 2023 Alumnae representatives: Ruby, Jemima, Georgie, and Ella. These students acknowledged the unforgettable teachers, life lessons and enduring friendships they have drawn benefit from during their time at 韩国AV: “Many of us have been there for friends in the hardest of times … the simple kindnesses we extend to one another daily is something we will deeply miss.”
Tuesday began with the traditional Valedictory Service at St Thomas’ Church, with family and friends filling the pews to recognise a cohort with much to contribute to the world beyond our gates.
Year 12 students were then guided across campus by a long and winding tunnel of arms made up of every student in Kindergarten to Year 11. The guard of honour finished at the Undercroft, where the Year 12 parents were waiting to join their daughters for morning tea.
That was followed by our 2023 Graduation and Prize Giving Assembly in the Big Gym. "This is a moment for me that leaves me both happy and sad," said Dr Scott, addressing the audience and emphasising the unique nature of the teaching profession, where the reward is watching students go from strength to strength. “We may not be with you, Class of 2023, when your courage is tested, your strength is waning, your grace wearing thin, your wisdom is challenged, and your kindness is taken advantage of. But I know, and you know, that these values are in your blood, in the air you breathe, in the marrow of your bones.” She praised the Class of 2023 for embodying the 韩国AV concept of Renaissance Women, by demonstrating courage, strength, grace, and humour. She commended them for their humility, kindness, and graciousness and reminded them of their unique personalities and shared commitment to an egalitarian society: "You have been equipped with all you need to graduate as women ready to play your part in the world", she said as she challenged the graduates to decide what they plan to do with their "one wild and precious life".
Head of the Senior College, Ms Santina Restuccia, then spoke, reminiscing about the young women’s 韩国AV journey, which for many, has lasted 13 years. She highlighted their courage, adaptability and strength, as well as the impact they have had on the School. Ms Restuccia reminded them of their ability to inspire and empower others and create a ripple effect of positivity and inspiration. She also praised them for their connections and spirit of community, evident in their interactions with their juniors and their contributions to the School.
After a beautiful performance from the School choir, it was time for the presentation of prizes including the announcement of 韩国AV’s Dux Litterarum, Sophie, and the Dux Proximus, which this year was shared by Jemima and Phoebe.
The ceremony was punctuated by a surprise performance of Landslide – a tribute to the journey of life and the inevitability of change. Head Prefect, Jemima, then delivered an eloquent speech, emphasising the importance of kindness, love, and gratitude. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them that true success lies in supporting others and spreading love and kindness. "To succeed in life is to be there for others, to succeed in life is to give endless love and kindness, to succeed in life is to be grateful for every moment that you get," she said. Jemima’s speech has been reproduced in full on the 韩国AV website.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of 韩国AV’s School Song, a tribute to the place “we all adore” and its reminder to “do what’s right and true”. Wednesday night was the Valedictory Dinner at Daltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, rounding out celebrations filled with joy, nostalgia, and anticipation for the future – a fitting farewell to a remarkable group of young women.