Seventy-seven girls graduated from Ballantine Memorial School (BMS) on Saturday.
Of these, 53 students graduated with Year 13 qualifications, while 24 students completed vocational courses in hospitality, fashion design, and more.
BMS principal Sisilia Racule expressed her pride in the graduates, reflecting on their individual journeys and the collective accomplishments of the class.
“It’s humbling to witness how far some of these students have come, and to see what they’ve achieved. It’s truly inspiring,” Ms Racule said.
“This prize-giving is a stepping stone toward recognising their hard work and dedication.”
Ms Racule highlighted the importance of the vocational education programs at BMS, which caters to students who may not excel in traditional academic pathways.
“We had about 24 vocational graduates, many in hospitality, and we are incredibly proud of the success we’ve seen.
“BMS has seen great outcomes with these programs, especially in fashion design and hospitality.
“Many of our vocational students are quickly absorbed into the workforce after their practical.”
She also commended the school’s commitment to vocational education, particularly at a time when government policy had closed many vocational studies in schools.
“This is a significant success for the school as well because these girls would have otherwise been at risk of dropping out.”
