Celebrating the Dulwich Pudong Class of 2022

On Monday 23 May, the Dulwich Pudong community gathered to honour and recognise our Class of 2022 graduates, 63 young women and men each poised to take their next steps on their lifelong journeys.

Even though held online, the ceremony incorporated our most hallowed traditions including formal addresses as well as individual recognition of each graduate.
 

Head Prefects Address

Student Voice Prefect Lee O. looked forward to the journey ahead: "There's so much ahead waiting to explore, so let's get to it!"

Wellbeing Prefect Astrid B. recognised the commitment of the Dulwich Pudong staff who go above and beyond both in and out of the classroom: "We will remember the care each of you has had for us."

House Prefect Christiana T. characterised her fellow Year 13s as "a strong family of talented, hardworking and amazing people...Our friendships will continue far into the future."

Global Citizenship Prefect Annabelle L. reminded her fellow graduates to "take the time to reflect on what we have learned during our time at Dulwich."
 

Head of College Address

Head of College Ms. Caroline Taylor took the opportunity to remind our graduates the value of living in the moment and appreciating the present.

"Before you run forward toward the future, take time to enjoy this moment. You have achieved much and have worked hard to get here. Believe in yourself as much as we believe in you."

She read a powerful piece by Robert Hastings called The Station which spoke eloquently of valuing the journey over the destination.

Finally, she encouraged our graduates to "live boldly, live a life without limits, strive to be the best version of yourself. If you do, not only will you change your world, you'll change the world around you too."

Musical Celebration

To celebrate the Class of 2022 our music students and staff came together to record their version of Refuge, by award-winning composer Howard Goodall. It conveyed a powerful message of inclusivity and selfless support of one another. It was a moving way to honour the strength of character this graduating class has displayed throughout their time at Dulwich.

Class of 2022 Student Address

The traditional Student Address was given by Ji Zhe O in which he warmly celebrated the triumphs and foibles of the Class of 2022 as they forged their way through the "difficult, wonderful and downright strange journey" of the IB. 

"Year 13, I hope you are proud of yourselves. You are all such talented individuals and you have accomplished truly amazing things. You often forget to give yourself credit for your achievements and you deserve everything good that comes to you. And (in the wise words of Monty Python) always look on the bright side of life."

Head of Senior School Address

Finally Head of Senior School, Ms. Alison Derbyshire, delivered an address to the Class of 2022 which honoured the collective resilience, determination and kindness they have manifested over the course of their journey, remarking "you were always there to encourage, support, cheer on and celebrate each other."

Ms. Derbyshire praised the lasting impact the Class of 2022 has made on the College. She singled out the valuable feedback they have given which has made the Senior School better, so that the culture and the environment continues to reflect our desire to make sure the wellbeing of each individual is supported throughout the school journey.

Finally she enumerated the many areas where the Class of 2022 has pioneered change within the College particularly around issues of diversity, inclusivity, equity and justice as well as being role models for younger students: "You have led by example, seeing yourselves as catalysts for change, standing with vulnerability and showing the power that your own voice can have to make the world a better place for everyone."

Congratulations, Class of 2022, you are true legends in the making! We all look forward to seeing the amazing things you do now as part of our global Worldwise Alumni Network.