St Joseph’s School celebrated its first graduating class of Year 12 students in its 128-year history, at the school's annual presentation evening last week.
The evening started with entertainment from the primary school choir and the school band.
They performed Something Just Like This by Coldplay and Pompeii by Bastille with musical coordination by Kitt Byfield.
Students from Year one through to Year 12 were then acknowledged for their achievements throughout the year.
Many of the awards were presented by guests including WA Catholic Education acting executive director Dr Debra Sayce, Central Wheatbelt MP Mia Davies and Northam Shire deputy president Michael Ryan.
Secondary head of school Ms Caroline Parnham said a great deal of effort was put in by school and community members to secure the introduction of Years 11 and 12 at the school.
This year saw the introduction of some special awards to recognise those whose achievements in Year 12 have made a significant impact.
The Year 12 Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership Award was awarded to Gabriella Ochtman.
The 2017 Former Staff and Students All-Rounder Award was given to Keely Rule.
This award was given to a student who has demonstrated leadership qualities, excellence in academic and sporting achievements and a contribution to house and school activities.
The St Emilie de Vialar Medal for Service was awarded to the Year 12 student who best demonstrated St Emilie de Vialar’s qoute, “Go! And with what you have and will receive, do all the good you can.”
The winner for this year was Megan Ashman.
Shari Van Welie was named the St Marcellin Champagnat Medal for Academic Achievement winner, which was awarded to the student with the highest results in general subjects.
The St Marcellin Champagnat Medal for Academic Achievement in ATAR was awarded to Meg Lawrence.
The final award announced was the St Joseph's Medal, chosen by the principal.
Gabriella Ochtman was named the winner of this prestigious award for her commitment to St Joseph’s School over the years.
The evening concluded with an enthusiastic rendition of a traditional Marist hymn to Mary, Sub Tuum by students from all year groups of the school.
Ms Carmen Cox outlined the many achievements of 2017 in her principal’s address to the audience.
“Our community is delighted that the delivery of a quality catholic education from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 is available in Northam,” Ms Cox said.