Grade 11 Graduation Ceremony 2025

On June 18, the Grade 11 graduating class of 2025 was recognised by teachers, staff, families, and peers during a special ceremony marking the end of their high school journey. Led in by a bagpiper, the graduates processed into Coristine Hall, followed by the singing of the school hymn.

 

Students were honoured with awards not only for academic achievement but also for strength of character. Following the distribution of awards, Head Prefect Andrew Carvalho-Guertin came on stage to deliver the Valedictorian speech. In an exceptional address—one that drew three separate rounds of applause—he reflected on the privilege of attending Selwyn House and the brotherhood formed among the class. Speaking on the quality of his classmates, he said: "Knowing our class, we have the resilience, the hard work, and the determination to overcome any adversity that comes our way. Everything that we've learned, the bonds we've created, and the experiences we've shared together are the core of our development as human beings, and are what have made us, the class of 2025, who we are."

 

Headmaster Downey then shared a few words about the graduating class before handing the mic over to Mr. Banerjee, Head of Senior School, who took the stage to call students up to receive their diplomas. Retiring English Department Head Ms. Palko presented diplomas to students who arrived between Grades 7 and 11, with some handed out by staff and Board members to their own sons in a touching display of the Selwyn family spirit. Departing staff member Ms. Prieur then took the stage to present diplomas to the students who joined in Elementary.

 

As each graduate exited the stage, they were presented with an Old Boy tie by Mr. Sean McKinnon '98, President of the Selwyn House Old Boys’ Association (OBA) Board, and retiring Director of Advancement Ms. Sharon Cozens, officially inducting them into the OBA. The ceremony ended with all singing O Canada, followed by a lovely reception in the Rossy Agora.

 

We wish the graduates all the best as they move on to Grade 12 at Selwyn House or begin new adventures elsewhere. Wherever their next chapter takes them, may they continue to work hard, stay true to themselves, and pursue their dreams with purpose, passion, and kindness.

 

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event so special.