Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony
Last week, the campus of Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou resounded with thunderous applause and bloomed with flowers as our Class of 2025 celebrated the crowning moment of their high-school journey. Under the fond gaze of their teachers, amid tearful farewells between classmates and the proud eyes of their families, our Dulwich Dragons bid a heartfelt farewell to these familiar halls and prepared to spread their wings towards the world’s leading universities.
This was far more than a farewell ceremony—it was a commencement rich with memories, good wishes, and boundless possibility.
Special Awards
Head of Year Award 2025: Head of Y13 Orville Dalling, supported by Assistant Head of Y13 Sandy Lei presented Cindy T in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the class of 2025.
Principal’s Award 2025: Principal Jon Fei honoured Ayaka Z for her outstanding contribution to DHSZ.
Head’s Award 2025: Head Sarah Tielman presented Nina S for her remarkable academic achievements.
From the Teacher: A Lifelong Love of Learning
Ms Louise Martin, our Deputy Head (Academics), offered the graduates these words of wisdom:
“The end of your high-school journey is truly the starting point of a lifelong voyage of learning. Always remain curious and open-minded, and embrace new knowledge and fresh challenges. In this fast-changing world, your ability to adapt and learn will be your greatest asset.”
“Even in our digital and AI age, the real connections—the moments spent with teachers and friends, and the obstacles you overcame together—are treasures to cherish and protect.”
She paid tribute to every colleague whose steadfast commitment to ‘students first’ has shaped both intellect and character, and she thanked parents for their unshakeable love and support:
“Your encouragement is the very foundation of your children’s success. Dulwich will always be their home.”
From the Peers: Etching the Marks of Youth
Peers are like comrades marching side by side, sharing both joys and challenges, and witnessing one another’s growth. Along the way, they have forged genuine friendships through mutual support and tempered their character with resilience. These youthful imprints will accompany them as they set sail for the boundless sea of stars.
Head students Carrie H, Cindy T, James Y and Luke Y led the hall in a stirring reflection on our shared journey:
“Do you remember? Four years ago, we met each other across screens in online lessons, cheered each other on during countless all-nighters, shone on the Founders’ Day stage, and braved the rain together on our Week Without Walls cycling adventure. These ‘firsts,’ from strangers to friends, taught us that true leadership lies in service and listening, and that real growth begins when we step beyond our comfort zones and learn to dance in the storm.”
They paid tribute to the unseen heroes of campus life:
“To our security guards who stood watch come rain or shine, the cleaners who kept our corridors immaculate, and the kitchen staff whose familiar smiles greeted us every day—you made this school our home.”
They concluded with a promise to each other and to the future:
“Though we scatter to all corners of the globe, the courage instilled by Dulwich and the friendships we forged here will shine like eternal stars. This is not farewell, but the prelude to our reunion—may we meet again as the lights that illuminate the world, in a place made even better by our presence.”
From the Parent: Wise Choices, Bold Dreams
Parents are the warmest harbour, nurturing their children’s growth with selfless love and unwavering support. Their hopes and encouragement become the courage and strength their children draw upon when facing the unknown. As the time comes to embark on new journeys, a parent’s gentle admonitions will transform into steadfast conviction, guiding and protecting them always.
On behalf of all parents, Ms Xiong offered three heartfelt nuggets of advice:
On Choices: “Trust that every decision you make is the best one for you at that moment. If regret follows, learn to let it go—keep expanding your horizons, and the way forward will become clear.”
On Growth: “Venturing abroad to study takes great courage. When challenges arise, remember that your parents and teachers are your steadfast support, and you possess the wisdom to find solutions and learn from every experience.”
On Passions: “Life is brilliant yet fleeting. Whether you have already discovered your calling or are still exploring, cherish this moment—study diligently, live passionately, and embrace a future rich with possibility.”
From the Alumni: Passing the Torch, Words for the Future
On the eve of the ceremony, we welcomed back alumni from around the globe. They reunited with former teachers and friends, and recorded video messages for the Class of 2025. Each warm smile and heartfelt wish linked Dulwich’s proud past to its promising future—reminding today’s graduates that, wherever they go, they remain part of this global family, always guided by the examples set and blessings shared.
Setting Forth as Dragons: Dulwich Spirit, Illuminating the World
Fueled by the conviction to “Grow in Dulwich, Thrive in Life” and driven by the mission “Detur Pons Mundo,” the Class of 2025 rises like the Dulwich Dragons. Every lesson learned, every challenge faced, every friendship forged has become part of their essence—shaping their independent thinking, spirit of service, resilience in adversity, and global vision. We are confident that this unique “Dulwich Dragon Mark” will carry them across oceans and continents, empowering them to shine on the world stage. Not only will they forge brilliant personal futures, but they will also bring the Dragon’s wisdom and passion to the world. We wish the Class of 2025 boundless success as they script their own magnificent chapters on life’s vast canvas. The world awaits your dragon-flight!
