The Class of 2024 gathered once more at St David’s Metropolitan Cathedral, celebrating the memories, friendships and academic achievements they had throughout their time at St David’s Catholic College.
Father Michael Doyle opened the ceremony by welcoming the St David’s College community to the Cathedral, by acknowledging that young people are our hope for the future, and quoting the words of our patron saint, St David “…be joyful, keep the faith”. The evening was full of joy as we celebrated the successes of the learners who are now progressing to the next chapter of their lives.
Musical interludes separated the awards giving, with upper sixth music student, and violinist, Kitty Williams performing Sonata in A Major. Eva Court sang ‘Over the Rainbow’, and Rebecca Tonge sang ‘When you believe’, two songs that represent inspiration and hope for the future.
Awards were given in each subject, with two awards for each subject, for academic excellence and outstanding endeavour.
As well as awards in each subject, Cross-College awards were also given to individuals who had excelled in certain areas of college life.
Joan Chike-Nweze was named this year’s Valedictorian and had everyone in attendance gripped by every word in her fantastically well-written speech.
Joan addressed her fellow classmates, by saying:
“Finally, to my dear classmates, There is no sweet talk for you, I’ll just keep it real and true, Clap clap clap, That’s probably what you want to hear. A pat on the back and perhaps a loud cheer. Well congratulations, you’ve made it this far. That shows how courageous you are. But don’t lose focus, keep your eyes on the target, because it’s not yet over. Today is not just a celebration of what we’ve done but of what we are ABOUT to do. Life is a journey, so they say, but today, we stand at a crossroads where the journey of our education meets the endless road of our future.”
As well as looking at the success of the Class of 2024, this event also marks the beginning of the college journey for some. Scholarships were awarded to a number of learners that have started at St David’s College this September. The college was delighted to be joined by the headteachers of three of it’s partner schools, Mr Patrick Brunnock from Corpus Christi High School, Mr David Blackwell from St Richard Gwyn High School, and Mr David Thomas from St Illtyd’s High School, to hand out the scholarships to students from those schools.
A total of 134 awards were presented during an evening where students, teachers, and family members could celebrate the achievements of learners before they prepare to embark on their next journey—whether it be university, an apprenticeship, or employment.
This meaningful recognition is sure to leave lasting positive memories as learners move forward beyond their time at St. David’s College. They have surpassed expectations, and these awards are a well-deserved acknowledgement of their exceptional efforts.
