Solemn 10th valedictory service for Glenwood matriculants

GEORGE NEWS - Cheerful embraces and eyes shining with emotion could be seen at Glenwood House School's Valedictory Service held on Thursday 16 November at the St Mark's Cathedral in George.

At the start of the ceremony, the group of 45 matrics were welcomed by teacher Philip Vercueil. The school, teachers and parents partook in a solemn service which included singing the Glenwood House anthem and addresses by the headmaster Dennis Symes as well as head prefects Joshua Barrett and Amber Bird.

Matric maths teacher Greta Leighton summed up the momentous occasion. "What a privilege to experience this special event at Glenwood House for the 10th year! We are indeed blessed to have the use of the beautiful St Mark's Cathedral to lend gravitas to the ceremony."

The programme went smoothly. Caera Grindlay, accompanied by her father, renowned pianist Peter Grindlay, brought tears to the eyes with her beautiful rendition of The Prayer. The two guest speakers, Mandy du Plessis and Greta Leighton, used the opportunity to share some final words of advice, caution and wisdom with the Grade 12 class.

Each matric received a personalised Bible as a gift from the school, after which every learner of the Glenwood class of 2017 rang the ceremonial bell to signal the end of their school career.

Parents and other members of the Glenwood family formed a guard of honour.

The ceremony ended with everybody throwing their bashers into the air. Many photographs and selfies were taken before all the guests were treated to refreshments by the lovely ladies of St Mark's.