Ross-shire's Class of '23 reflects on a time like no other as secondary school leavers across county mark major milestone in their lives
THE last official day of school for hundreds of sixth year pupils across Ross-shire was a time for celebration and reflection across the county this week.
With many pupils now on study leave ahead of examinations starting in May, Friday marked the final day of school together for many.
It was a time for classmates to let off steam and look back on their time together in secondary education.
Some have been together since nursery and known each other most of their lives, forming bonds set to last a lifetime.
The coronavirus crisis – which prompted a rapid remodelling of the education system to allow learning from home – was noted by a number of teachers looking back on the challenges faced by the class of '23.
Fortrose Academy on the Black Isle posted: "It's a sad time when our S6 have their final day in school. This lot have endured a time unlike any other and have come out the other side a real credit to us. We wish them well for the future and hope to see them again in June for their final farewell and graduation. Good luck in the exams guys, you'll smash it!"
Dingwall Academy also shared on its social media pages. It said: "Last day in school before study leave and we say farewell to S6! Thank you for being brilliant this week!"
READ ALSO: Dingwall rector registers 'incredible pride' over resilience of pupils through coronavirus crisis
Alness Academy said farewell to its "amazing S6" at a leavers' ceremony and paid tribute to guest speaker, Lee Sansum, an international security professional, former soldier, Team Great Britain athlete, speaker and author.
He was also a bodyguard for Diana, Princess of Wales.
The school posted: "Thanks also to Mr Honour for his organisation of the day, our fantastic catering team, and all of your young people and their parents who attended this morning.
“'This was the river, what comes next is the sea' – best wishes to all of our leavers.We wish you every success in life."
Gairloch High School also paid tribute to pupils who came through "a very tricky" period.
It said: "A huge well done to all our pupils from this year group for what they've achieved in their time at Gairloch High School! You've worked hard in school, whether that be in your subjects or when taking part in all the extra-curricular activities you've had a go at, excelled at and sometimes taken on the role of leading yourself.
"Thanks for making our staff laugh often, inspiring our younger pupils and sticking with it when your S3 and S4 years became really tricky.
"Whether you're leaving Gairloch High School this year, or said goodbye to us after S4 or S5 – thank you for all the many ways you've volunteered, worked and contributed to the communities you live in. We're really excited and proud to see your next steps in life as some of you are preparing to move away from the area and others are making plans to build a life locally.
"Best wishes and good luck!"
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