GETTING through the trials and perils of year 12 can be hard enough let alone in the middle of a global pandemic.
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However, students from St Francis College took it all in their stride in 2020 and have now officially come out the end of it all.
The students have completed their Higher School Certificate exams and were able to celebrate in style recently at their graduation and formal celebration.
The event had to be moved from its usual location in Leeton due to COVID-19 regulations, instead happening at the Yoogali Club in Griffith.
"After a year of doubt, disappointments, confusion and incredible change, we were all so grateful to have been able to join together and attend the year 12 graduation dinner," College principal Seb Spina said.
"The expansive floor space at Yoogali Club met with the COVID distancing protocols to allow parents to attend, along with the 88 graduating students and a large contingent from the teaching and non-teaching staff.
"We regret having to move the function away from Leeton and certainly plan to return to a venue in town next year.
"The reality is that all Australians, especially those of us in regional communities, have been only moderately affected by the pandemic and, while year 12 students have missed so many milestones this year, we must never lose sight of the fact that we are all indeed very fortunate."
The graduation dinner proved to be a joyous celebration of everything that is good about the college and the achievements of the group over the years.
The students were able to dress to the nines and mark the end of their schooling lives before preparing for whatever may come their way next.
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"Graduates forever remain a part of the fabric of St Francis College," Mr Spina said.
"Being a St Francis person compels us all to do good works into the future, to be kind, to be generous, to be that person on your banner it's not what stands it front of you, it's who stands beside you.
"If you can teach other people all of these things, you'll be a better person yourself."