Newhaven College's Class of 2023 bid a fond farewell to their school life last week in a flurry of festive activities.

The three-day celebration commenced with a playful twist as students donned ‘White Lie’ t-shirts on Friday which included bringing books to school in anything other than a bag, such as a shopping trolley, a safe, a mop bucket and a pram.

This was just the beginning, as the days that followed were filled with Celebration Day dress-ups and competitive House commando games, at the Year 9 Environmental Centre.

These activities provided an opportunity for the students to let off some steam before they embarked on the more sombre formalities of their final all-school assembly and emotional goodbyes.

The pinnacle of the memorable last day was the release of 51 white doves, each symbolizing one of the 51 students who embarked on their journey at Newhaven College during its inaugural year.

To round off this momentous occasion, a Valedictory dinner was held at Silverwater Resort, where the students had the chance to spend their final moments together as the close-knit Year 12 cohort, surrounded by their dedicated teachers and proud parents.

Final assembly

Addressing the gathered Class of 2023 at the final all-school assembly, Principal Tony Corr took a moment to reflect on how each student has their own unique skills and talents that will help them forge their own path.

He reminded students to never compromise on their values.

“If you continue to live by the values instilled here at Newhaven: Respect, Honesty, Responsibility, Empathy and Excellence – you will never go too far wrong.”

 “As Principals, we are often asked the question – what type of students do we want to send off into the world,” Tony continued.

“My response – I want caring, happy, loyal, kind young people who are good to their parents, their loved ones and their friends. Who are prepared to work hard in the area they are passionate about.

Who want to go into the world and make a positive difference.

“For some that may be head on, for others a gentler and quieter approach. As you have so often been reminded ‘In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength’.

“On behalf of Newhaven College to our graduating Year 12s I want to say thank you,” Mr Corr said.

“It has been our honour to share your journey, to walk with you, support you and encourage you. Your year group is special and has left a lasting legacy.”

The final assembly included the presentation of awards.

Awards were given to students in each Year 12 subject who had achieved the highest grades and made significant contributions to the development of their subjects for the benefit of all students.

Mr Corr presented the prestigious Principal's Prize to Gabriel Pascoe.

The Papworth Prize was awarded to Tess Papas who was also the recipient of both the ADF Future Innovators Award and academic awards for each of her five subjects.

“Tess exemplifies the values and academic excellence for which Newhaven College is renowned,” Mr Corr said.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) also recognised Max Brown with the Long Tan Leadership Award.

Additionally, awards were bestowed upon those who exemplified the school's House values, excelled in sports, and who earned the prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award.

As Newhaven College's Year 12 students embark on their future endeavours, they do so with fond memories, cherished experiences and a bright outlook on the road ahead. Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

Major award winners:
Principal’s Prize – Gabriel Pascoe
Papworth Prize – Tess Papas
ADF Long Tan Leadership Award – Max Brown
ADF Future Innovators Award – Tess Papas

Students who received one Academic Award:
Accounting – Thomas Johnstone
History Revolutions – Gabriel Pascoe
Mathematics General – Leigh Pouw
Music Performance – Contemporary – Saffi Campbell Walker
Outdoor and Environmental Studies – Christopher Eastwood
Physics – Oscar Healey
Product Design and Technology (Wood) – Niamh Moore
Systems Engineering – Lucas White
Theatre Studies – Art Oakley

Students who received two Academic Awards:
English and English Literature – Willamina Donohue 

Students who received three Academic Awards:
Food Studies, Health and Human Development and Legal Studies – Sienna McFarlane
Geography, Visual Communication and Design and Environmental Science – Abbey Dwyer
Business Management, Media and Psychology – Max Brown

Students who received five Academic Awards:
Chemistry, English, Health and Human Development, Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics – Tess Papas

Sport Awards:
Athletics – Dylan Shone
Swimming – Ebony Donohue, Lucas White and Kai McMahon
Cross Country – Max Brown
SEISA Sports Certificate – Charley Donohue and Lucas Chihotski
Major Sports Award – Ruby Bond and Hunter van der Zwet 

Values Awards:
Bass House – Abbey Dwyer and Max Brown
Clarke House – Finn Cashman and Saffi Campbell Walker
McHaffie House – Marli Carter and Henry Peppard
Sambell House - Ella Grummisch and Tyra Trappett
Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award – Hamish Scothern