From First Steps to Leading the Way
The week began with the cherished Taronga Zoo visit, where Year 12 students spent the day alongside Kindergarten. Together they marvelled at the Zoo’s wonders, from the animal enclosures to the captivating bird show, sharing in moments of discovery and excitement. This symbolic full circle moment held special meaning for many who could remember their own early days at IGS. The tradition represents the continuity of learning and connection across the School, with Year 12 students stepping into the role of guides and mentors for our youngest learners. It also highlighted the strength of the community that ties together every year group.
Graduation Dinner
In the evening Year 12 students came together with their families and teachers for the Graduation Dinner. Welcomed by Master of Ceremonies and Community Relations Manager Paul Galea, this formal occasion provided a special opportunity to acknowledge the graduating class, celebrating not only their accomplishments but also their growth and the personal journeys that have shaped them.
Principal Shauna Colnan opened the event with an address to the Class of 2025, capturing the evening’s theme The World is Your Oyster. She reflected on the graduates’ journeys, from their earliest days at IGS to the challenges and triumphs of their senior years, and warmly welcomed back alumna Astrid McKinley, Head Girl of 2020, whose leadership during the pandemic continues to inspire.
She acknowledged the vital role of parents and families in supporting the students and urged the graduates to embrace what comes next with courage, kindness, and curiosity. Drawing on the words of Mark Twain, she encouraged them to step boldly into the future, to “explore, dream, discover,” and to trust in their ability to do difficult things.
Class of 2020 Alum Astrid McKinley shared her journey since leaving IGS. Now studying Biomedical Engineering at Sydney University, she spoke about her passion for research, including projects exploring oxytocin as a treatment for Alzheimer’s. Astrid encouraged students to start by identifying what they don’t want to do, to back their decisions and to take time to learn about themselves. She highlighted the value of lifelong friendships formed at IGS and reflected on the School’s core qualities of empathy, credibility, worldly experience and loyalty that have guided her beyond the classroom.
Guest speakers Rob and Sally Randell reflected on their long connection with education and their early awareness of IGS, noting that their interest began 20 years ago when they first recognised the School’s strong commitment to both local and international communities. In 2018, they saw the opportunity to join this adventure when their daughter Matilda entered Year 5. They emphasised the vital role of School leaders and teachers, thanking staff such as Ms Cao for their welcoming, encouraging and mentoring presence. Sally addressed the Class of 2025 directly, recognising the resilience, creativity and kindness developed over 13 years of School and describing the journey as both wild and beautiful. They closed with a reminder that “good people and good things are never far away”.
Head of Year Amy Cao addressed the Year 12 students, offering advice for the future: be kind and compassionate, listen openly to others, critically evaluate information in an age of AI and misinformation, focus on what truly matters in life, and avoid an obsessive search for “purpose” at the expense of appreciating the present.
She shared her journey at IGS, including her initial doubts when appointed Head of Year 8 and the challenges of guiding students over the years. Reflecting on the experience, she expressed pride in the students’ growth and recognised how they had helped her grow into a better version of herself. She concluded by encouraging students to embrace unexpected opportunities and persevere through difficulties, noting that such experiences can lead to some of life’s most meaningful rewards.
Head Boy Lachlan B reflected on his long journey at IGS, from his early days in Kindergarten to the challenges and lessons of high school. He spoke candidly about setbacks and how these moments of failure became turning points for his growth. Lachlan emphasised that IGS is a place of chances, where teachers support students to learn from mistakes and keep trying. He encouraged his peers to embrace failure as part of becoming better, reminding them that effort matters more than perfection. Above all, he expressed his gratitude for the School community, the friendships and the teachers who made IGS such a positive and supportive place to grow.
Head Girl Georgina M spoke on behalf of the Class of 2025, offering heartfelt thanks to the many people who shaped their journey at IGS. She gave special gratitude to Head of Year 12 Ms Cao, for her dedication, care and support and to the teachers who guided the students through the challenges of the HSC with patience and compassion.
Georgina also acknowledged the behind-the-scenes efforts of staff including Ms Duma, Mr Dennehy and Mr Mandrini, as well as the leadership of Principal Shauna Colnan in carrying IGS forward as a vibrant and unique school. Thanks were extended to Alum Astrid McKinley for her words of encouragement, and to Robert and Sally Randall and the P&C for their ongoing contributions.
Families were recognised for their enduring support – through tears, late nights and last-minute cramming – while Georgina’s final words were reserved for her peers, celebrating the resilience, companionship and shared experiences that made the long journey from Kindergarten to Year 12 not only possible but meaningful.
To conclude the evening, the globe graduation cake was cut by Head Girl and Head Boy, followed by a light-hearted celebration on the dancefloor. Laughter, music and dancing brought students, families and staff together, closing the night in a spirit of joy and togetherness.
Special thanks were extended to Community Relations Manager Paul Galea, to Jenny Khan, and to all those working behind the scenes whose efforts made the evening a memorable celebration for the Class of 2025.
A Midweek Pause
Midway through the week, teachers hosted a barbeque in honour of Year 12. Paul Galea took to the grill to cook sausages, while students enjoyed a relaxed gathering that offered a welcome pause from HSC study, giving them a chance to share food, laughter and time together in an informal setting.
Small Groups, Lasting Connections
Later in the day, tutor group farewells provided a more personal space for goodbyes. These mixed year groups have been central to daily life at IGS, fostering friendships, support and a strong sense of community. The farewells were marked by gratitude and reflection, as students and teachers alike acknowledged the role these small communities have played in shaping their School journey.
