HANDING OVER THE BATON…

JAELENE THOMPSON

The Valedictory Service for the Matric Class of 2021 was a memorable occasion filled with tears and great laughs. The service is the event when the matrics finally leave St Michael’s to start a new chapter of their lives. The baton is officially passed to the Grade 11s.

   At this occasion the school thanked the matrics for their service to the school and entrusted the leadership to the Class of 2022. It was the last school event for the St Michael’s family to come together in 2021.

   The Chapel Choir sang a beautiful traditional song called Emarabini, arranged by Vice Head Chorister, Boitumelo Mtsatse. In the song the Lord is asked to bless and protect his children and to help them find their way. Towards the end of the service their Acapella rendition of an Irish blessing brought tears to many eyes.

    Kgosatsana Mabalane (Head Girl for 2021) shared a moving speech that was more light-hearted rather than serious and sad. She didn’t want anyone to cry but rather to be happy and laugh about the moments they had shared. The inside jokes in the speech served as a reminder of the close bond that the matrics share and treasure.

   The service ended with singing Grade 11 learners holding candles, forming a guard of honour for the matrics to exit the main gate of the school and re-enter it as Old Girls. The Matric Class of 2021 served St Michael’s with distinction and set a good example of what a true SMS lady should be. St Michael’s wishes them the best of luck for the next chapter of their lives.