Recently, I had the joy and honour of being invited as guest speaker at not just one, but three primary school graduations across St. Thomas, Jamaica. I was warmly welcomed by Prospect Primary, Middleton Primary and Font Hill Primary. I left each celebration inspired by the bright young minds and supportive communities I encountered.
Notably, each school had a unique theme, which meant I wrote a fresh speech for each audience, tailored, thoughtful and from the heart. While the speeches varied, three core messages remained consistent. Today, I’m sharing those timeless tips here on the blog.
| SCHOOL | THEME |
| Prospect Primary School | “Soaring Like Eagles…Striving for Success” |
| Middleton Primary School | “Unlocking the Future; We hold the Key to Our Success” |
| Font Hill Primary School | “Your Talents Come with Responsibilities” |
Primary School Graduations: You Belong In Prominent Spaces
One of the biggest lessons I wanted each graduate to leave with is this: you belong in prominent spaces. Many of them are from economically challenged families and communities. So many are the flag bearers for their families and are excited about the prospects of a new school. Even with this excitement, it is easy for them to question themselves, their abilities and their chances in life. So many of us have had even a trace of this very feeling.
I wanted them to know, that regardless of where they are from, their family’s status or even their placement for high school, that they deserve to shine, be heard and to enter rooms, seemingly ‘too great’ for their current viewpoint of their worth. Whether it’s on the football field, in the classroom, later in a boardroom or even a studio, “you are not an imposter.”
As a matter of fact, contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to ‘become’ something first before you are worthy. You are already worthy.
Related Post: How to Defy the Odds and Glow Up Just the Same
Get Involved: Extra-Curricular Activities Build You
Sometimes the classroom alone doesn’t show all your talents. That’s why I encouraged students to get involved in clubs and societies, school leadership and community work.
Extra-curricular activities help to build confidence, discipline and team spirit. All necessary in the ‘adult world’ whether as your own boss or an employee. These avenues for growth are excellent in helping to discover what makes you unique while preparing you for bigger responsibilities.
I remember in high school myself (Head Girl) and the Head Boy sat in the principal’s office, briefing him on the duties we have been executing – those by ‘job description’ and those from our own initiatives. I recall how proud he was that we had become so essential and how our characters seemed professional beyond our years and stage. We thought this was his way of making light of how much we seemed at the time to have on our plates. Nonetheless, something he said, never left me and it was only after leaving high school did I understand.
He said something to this effect: All these responsibilities and duties have been preparing you for life. By the end of your roles here you can walk into any job interview and get the job. You can excel anywhere with your character and work ethic.
I truly gasped at how sincere he said this to us. Strongly believing that we were ‘top tier.’ He had seen us both shine in our academic pursuits and with our leadership roles and extra-curricular involvement.
I hope the students believe too, that this is certainly an excellent way to grow.
Primary School Graduations: Be Responsible People in the World
My final tip is one that speaks both personally and on national development. Be responsible. As I was invited in my capacity as Miss St. Thomas Festival Queen 2025, I had to encourage the students to be responsible citizens who will help to build their families, communities and our nation.
Being responsible means making wise decisions, owning your actions and contributing positively to home, school, community and Jamaica (and ultimately the world, as global citizens).
When we raise responsible children, we nurture responsible adults. Let that sink in.
Related Post: St. Thomas on the Rise: A Parish in Bloom
Primary School Graduations: Final Thoughts
To the graduates of Prospect Primary, Middleton Primary and Font Hill Primary, I hope these lessons carry you far, to places of purpose. I also hope that you will come across compassionate people who will help to lift you, hold doors open for you and polish your shine. You already have what it takes, just keep rooting for growth!
