Class of 2024 Graduation Ceremony!
Last Saturday, the ISA Community celebrated a key milestone in the lives of our seniors: the annual graduation ceremony! In the lead-up to the event, Grade 12 students had been hard at work preparing for their final exams, making the ceremony even more of a memorable occasion.
Taking place at the Schouwburg Theatre in Amstelveen, the Class of 2024 was ISA’s 48th graduating class, comprising 116 seniors and representing 37 different nationalities. As an international school, we encouraged students to wear the graduation clothing which represents their national or cultural identity and many chose to wear the graduation cap and gown in traditional ISA burgundy.
We were welcomed to the ceremony with opening remarks from our Director, Dr. Bernadette P. Carmody, and Head of Upper School, Ruth Clarke. Faraz Mirza was invited to speak on behalf of the faculty and staff, delivering a memorable speech which included some important life advice for our graduates! Lastly, Louis Conquéret and Anouk Sijbring represented the student population by giving an emotional speech.
The event was a moving tribute to a wonderful class as they transitioned out of school into a new and exciting phase of their lives. The ceremony included three fabulous musical performances from the students, including Keane’s Somewhere Only We Know, Billy Joel’s Vienna and Yuki Hayashi’s You Can Become a Hero. This was followed by the presentation of the ISA High School Diplomas when each student walked onto the stage to receive their diploma as a culmination of their time at ISA.
In keeping with tradition, achievement awards were presented. These are awarded to students in recognition of personal, academic, and ethical excellence, and faculty members vote to decide who should receive each award. Please see below a list of the awards and their recipients.
Leadership Award – Alexander Jun and Juliet Kruimer
Given to students who model strong leadership skills within our ISA community.
CAS Award – Nehir Kirkgoz and Neta Raz
Given to students who embody the spirit of CAS – Creativity, Action and Service, in addition to the IB learner profile.
Simon Schilp Athletics Award – Nathalia Souza van Nimwegen and Benjamin Hannuksela
Given to students who have contributed positively to the ISA athletic programme and have been valuable members of various sports teams over the past years.
ECIS Award for International Understanding – Victoria Tarkang
The European Council of International Schools presents this award to a student who is a good representative of furthering the cause of international understanding.
ISA Award – Lara Antunez de Mayolo Daly
Given to a student who personifies the goals of ISA. They bring a positive attitude to education and have utilised the school’s opportunities creatively to gather experience and achieve success.
Peggy Brannigan Award for Environmental Action – Mia Reyn
Awarded to a student who has shown exemplary leadership and commitment to the protection of the environment. This person may be a very active member of the Green Team but it is not a requirement.
A final highlight was the reception held for the graduates and their families. Congratulations to all of our senior students! Your hard work, perseverance and achievements have been inspiring. We are incredibly proud of you and wish you all the best in your future endeavours as you represent ISA as part of our alumni community.
