Graduation is always a proud day for students, their family and their friends, and it’s a chance to celebrate all that students have achieved throughout their time at school, college or university. This year, with new beginnings on the horizon for many of our post-16 students who are transitioning to adult care homes, and pupils moving from lower school to upper school, Hollybank School organised and introduced their first ever official graduation ceremony.
The journey to this milestone had been one of growth, learning, and overcoming challenges. Throughout their time at Hollybank School, these students had not only excelled academically and built confidence but had also developed strong bonds with their peers and teachers. The school had become a second home, a place where they felt understood, supported, and valued.
In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, the students participated in various activities to prepare for their big day. One student took part in a collaborative sewing project, and she was a natural at helping to trim down the fabric to the desired measurements of each student and helping to stitch the final seams. The sewing sessions were filled with laughter and teamwork, as she contributed to the process of making each of her classmates feel special on their Class of 2024 celebration. After completing the first gown, the group organised a small showcase to present their work, featuring a model wearing the gown and caps provided by post-16.
On the day of the graduation, the school hall was beautifully decorated with a Class of 2024 banner and backdrop for photo opportunities to capture moments that will be forever remembered and treasured. It was an emotional ceremony, with many teachers saying goodbye to students they have worked with for years, and family members and close friends recalling the first day of school and the first day at Hollybank for their loved one who was graduating on the day. This ceremony was combined with an end of year assembly for other students who have not yet finished their school journey with us.
As the students walked across the stage to receive their certificates, there were smiles, tears, and applause. Each graduate was recognised not just for their accomplishments, but for their ability to light up a room, their quirks, and their ability to take a shine to different subjects and experience. The graduates proudly wore their handmade gowns, a symbol of excitement as they take their next steps on their journey at Hollybank. During the ceremony, a presentation was played for each student, including good luck wishes from teachers at Hollybank School, which made it feel like their very own yearbook.
As the day came to a close, a special get-together was held where everyone could make connections, share memories and anecdotes, take photos, and share personalised messages for the students and school. One family member through a heartfelt poem shared her gratitude for how Hollybank School welcomed their loved one in with open arms. Among the gifts and well-wishes was this poem, a cross-stitch artwork and a thank you card from this family member, reminding everyone of the strong support network that had been a cornerstone of the students’ success.
Every year, Hollybank School celebrates the graduation of its pupils, who then transition to new opportunities in the adult homes of Hollybank Trust. Moving into the adult care homes at Hollybank Trust is a significant step for our students, children and young people offering them a new environment where they can continue to grow and thrive. The transition was made smoother by the familiar faces and the continuity of care provided by the dedicated staff at Hollybank.
The story of these graduates is a testament to the power of community, the importance of inclusive education, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for students with disabilities. As they embark on this new journey, they carry with them the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the confidence to face whatever the future holds.
We’ll leave you with the poem written by a parent of one of our Class of 2024 graduates:
Our journey began several years ago, when Tiegan was aged just ten,
Struggling to find a suitable school, you gave us real HOPE again.
You welcomed us into Hollybank School, and made us feel right at home,
The positive vibes from everyone, gave us FAITH we weren’t alone.
Your support gave Tiegan so much COURAGE, to take steps forward again
She started becoming more confident, and really thriving then.
“Quality of Life” is truly given, within these welcoming walls
And LOVE and JOYFULNESS are sincerely felt, as you meander down the halls.
You really are an amazing team, the truly special kind,
The care and KINDNESS you give to all, is exceptionally rare to find.
Your teaching skills are outstanding, and your PATIENCE highly rated,
The conquering of challenges, and achieving success, are always celebrated.
You’ve shared your WISDOM throughout the years, passed your advice and knowledge on,
Your valuable input is going to be missed, when the last of the school days are gone.
We’ve laughed out loud, and cried together, and genuine FRIENDSHIPs have been made
And we’re definitely clinging to the memories, so they’ll never ever fade
There’s a SIMPLICITY in our last message today, that you’re amazing through and through,
And we’ve really struggled to find the words, to fully say Thank You!
It’s hard to show our deep GRATITUDE, but we hope the words in this gift
Can show in just a little way, how much you’ll all be missed.
So, now the time has finally come, when sadly we must say farewell
Looking on the bright side though, some PEACE will be restored as well!
Presented to Hollybank School by the Greenall Family (July 2024)
Hollybank Trust is a registered Charity: 1043129
VAT Registration Number: 479 750144
