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On Friday 27^th June 2025, we came together at Harris Academy Bermondsey to celebrate the achievements and growth of our Year 11 students in a joyful and heartfelt graduation ceremony. The event was filled with smiles, laughter, a few happy tears — and plenty of proud moments shared between students, staff, and families.

Our wonderful hosts Ferimata and Summer led the ceremony with confidence and warmth, keeping the event flowing beautifully and adding their own spark to the day. Their energy helped set the tone for a celebration that was both meaningful and relaxed.

A standout moment of the event was a moving musical performance by Cybella, Melody, and Rochelle, who delivered a beautifully arranged rendition of “A Million Dreams”. Their harmonies and stage presence gave the song a personal feel that captured the spirit of hope and imagination for the future, without needing grand declarations — just genuine feeling.

We also heard a thoughtful speech from our Principal, Mrs Landman, who reflected on how far this year group has come since their first days in Year 7. She praised their resilience, kindness, and the sense of community they’ve helped to build at HAB.

One of the most entertaining parts of the ceremony was the Teacher Awards, a much-loved HAB tradition. Staff were celebrated with light-hearted categories and jokes, with plenty of laughs and applause from the students — a reminder of the strong bonds formed over the years.

Among the awards, a particularly heartfelt moment came when Ms Green — who left HAB earlier this year — made a special return visit to attend the ceremony. Her appearance was a lovely surprise for many, and she was honoured with the Most Inspiring Teacher Award, recognising the lasting impression she left on her students. Her presence was a reminder of how great teachers can continue to shape lives even after they’ve moved on.

The formal certificate presentation followed, with each student receiving their graduation certificate and a warm round of applause. This marked the official end of their journey through secondary school — but just the beginning of what comes next, whether that’s sixth form, college, apprenticeships, or something new. We couldn’t be prouder.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Mrs Thompson, Head of Year 11, for her tireless support, leadership, and guidance over the past five years. Students shared how much her presence meant — “for helping us adapt more to secondary life and guiding us during our difficulties.” Her role in organising both the graduation and the prom helped ensure these milestone moments were unforgettable for the students she has championed throughout.

We also want to celebrate the many teachers who made a difference in Year 11 students' lives. Miss Logan was warmly thanked for “all the support with English and all the extra time she has put in to support our class,” while Ms Roberts, Mr Oranu, Ms Green, and many others were mentioned in personal shoutouts that show the real impact of connection and care.

The ceremony was beautifully framed by a display of Year 11’s stunning artwork, showcased along the walls — a proud reminder of their creativity and talent.

Students also shared their favourite memories from their time at HAB:

• “Thorpe Park trip and culture day!”

• “Going to Paris in Year 10 and laughing non-stop.”

• “Being welcomed when I joined in Year 10 — I didn’t feel alone.”

• “The Year 9 Culture Day and sixth form open evenings.”

• “Drop-down sessions and revising with friends during exam season.”

• “Joining my friend group for the first time — I’ve been in it ever since.”

As for what they’ll miss the most:

“Being together in one place.”
“The community we built.”
“Some of the teachers… and some of the drama!”
“The energy in our classes.”
“Definitely not the stairs to the 6th floor!”

Some of the most touching messages came from students to their peers:

“Stay safe, love you all, and thank you for being a reason I am still here today.”
“Even though I was only here two years, this place felt like home.”
“You are capable of so many things — reach for the stars with your talents.”
“I’ll miss you all. Even the most unserious ones.”
“Keep trying your hardest and always believe in yourself — we all have the potential to succeed.”
“It may be sad we’re leaving… but we never have to do maths again!”