The 2022-2023 school year in Boulden House was honoured as Trinity College School celebrated Junior School Closing Ceremony on Thursday, June 15th. And what a special year it has been! Over the past 10 months, students in Grades 5 to 8, along with faculty and staff, have seen the return of many valued traditions and the development of new and exciting initiatives. Throughout, there has been a focus on building an inclusive community where each student feels valued and supported.
Closing Ceremony serves as the finale of a busy and exciting week in the Junior School, starting with class parties on Monday. Thanks go to the class parents who hosted each homeform for a wonderful afternoon of fun and friendship. Then, on Tuesday, the Grade 8 students were in the spotlight as they were feted during their annual graduation dinner at Dalewood Golf Club. Grad families gathered for a lovely evening that featured dinner and several presentations, including a “walk down memory lane” led by Grade 8 students Fiona Hartleib, Jack Heckbert and Delyth Thomas.
After a final day of classes on Wednesday, Thursday brought with it the culmination of the school year. In keeping with the Junior School’s focus on community, every student is celebrated during Closing Ceremony. Students processed proudly into the ceremony tent, greeted by family and friends, and the ringing of the Memorial Chapel bells. Tottenham Band performed O Canada, and later in the ceremony treated guests to Rise of the Ancients by Ryan Meeboer.
Mrs. Jennifer Reid welcomed everyone to the ceremony, noting that in the wake of the global pandemic and significant social events that have challenged us to work for change, students, staff and families of the Junior School have risen to the challenges of recent years. “So, as we acknowledge the impacts that have shaped our learning and experiences, let’s celebrate a year like no other,” she said. “The challenges that we have faced together have taught us valuable life lessons, reminding us of the importance of community, kindness and open-mindedness. Values we hold so dear as a Junior School community.”
Then it was time for a bevy of awards and for each student to take the stage to receive their grade completion certificate from their homeform teacher. The Grade 8 grads were honoured, receiving diplomas, and their time in Boulden House was beautifully captured in the valedictory address by Grade 8 student Connor Demrovsky.
Head of Trinity College School Stuart Grainger closed the ceremony by thanking everyone, after which TCS Chaplain, Canon Don Aitchison provided the grace. Tottenham Band once more lent its talents, playing A Song for Peace by James Swearingen as everyone departed the tent.
A final reception in The Lodge Garden was a chance to take photos and share hugs with family and friends as we bid goodbye to a wonderful year in the Junior School!
