The 25th IB Diploma class celebrated St Clare's 50th anniversary with their Graduation during the weekend of 23 - 25 May. The Graduation Ball was held at Freud's, as it has been for the last three years. An excellent meal, with accompanying cool jazz, was followed by dancing and a disco - with Shalani Alisharan (Psychology teacher) as guest DJ.

The Graduation Day itself started with a lively concert which included a surprise appearance from Yashushi Tanaka (Class of 2002). Drinks and the usual excellent lunch were followed by the ceremony itself. Kamila Ilyumzhinova gave an affectionate and complimentary speech on behalf of the students. His Excellency Lode Willems, father of Mark Willems, spoke for the parents. Keynote speech was given by Peter Oppenheimer, Chair of the Governors and was wide-ranging and thought provoking.

The following students received awards:
Dean of Students' Award - Chris Durham
For a student who has made a productive and positive all-round contribution to College life.
Director of Studies Award - Grace Li
In recognition of high intellectual standards and outstanding academic achievement.
Service to the Wider Community Award - Didde Bjerglund
In recognition of an outstanding contribution to the service of others through the College's Activities Programme
Activities Award - Camilla Lee
In recognition of excellent involvement in the College Activities programme and through it an outstanding contribution to the life of the College.
ECIS Award for International Understanding - Sinem Dilektasli
Awarded to a student who is a good representative of her own country, with a positive attitude toward the life and culture of others, able to converse in at least two languages, a contributing force in the life of the school, with the ability to bring differing people together into a sense of community, thus furthering the cause of international understanding.

As always, it was sad to say goodbye to a year group. The Class of 2003 have had the usual range of abilities and interests, along with some notable characters. We wish them well in the future.

Graduation Day photo gallery