It has certainly been an emotional end to the year for the Class of 2021.

Whilst our Year 12s have been denied the traditional rites of passage that so many look forward to in their final year of schooling, they have been able to overcome the sadness and sense of loss and focus on glimpses of positivity – the opportunity to return to the classroom, enjoy lunch with friends in-person, or complete their end of year exams as scheduled.

As I reflect on the never-ending roller coaster this Cohort has been on over the past two years, I am heartened by how incredibly kind and caring they are.

They have always been so supportive of each other, even during the most difficult of days. It is the empathy and generosity of this group that make the Class of 2021 such a special cohort to be a part of.

There is no denying our Year 12s have been truly courageous. As the Class of 2021 they have overcome a challenging set of circumstances that are unique and unprecedented – and each one of them has done this impressively.

These young women have adapted, faced adversity and persevered. When the moment for daring and doing arrived, that is exactly what they did, and exactly what they will continue to do. I applaud and am in awe of their resilience and fortitude.

During our final School Assembly together, I provided these remarkable women with some words of advice as they progress through their final weeks of VCE:

“Continue your journey with strength and determination, do not fear, take positive risks, suffer falls, keep going…because you are not alone.

“You are supported by so many, including your dedicated Year 12 teachers, your families and friends.

“Hold your heads high Class of 2021, you have achieved so much and I could not be prouder.”