In his graduation speech after four terms, Ethan wrote:
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to this term’s, and my final graduation ceremony at the Longford and Fraser Academy for boys. I must first thank my parents for the wonderful opportunity to attend, and their logistical support in this endeavour. Although I have not always put into practice the dark arts learned here, I am truly grateful for this investment. Miss Anderson, your guidance and tutelage would make Mr Longford and Mr Fraser extremely proud. In particular, you have taught me social graces, inner strength and the skills to lead. Not mention which fork I use to eat oysters, should I ever feel such a ridiculous urge. The experience of these past 4 terms at our Academy would not have been the same without my esteemed classmates. Thank you, both present and past students, for creating an enjoyable and, at times competitive, fun environment. I hope that each of you enjoys the same growth I have. Our Monday evenings have been filled with excitement and anticipation. It has never been a chore, as I have sometimes felt about homework, and that is testament to Miss Anderson. Her approach has been inclusive, thoughtful and educational. We learned through role play and games, like the NATO phonetic alphabet game, which I particularly enjoyed. These lessons added to the relaxed formality expected of us and the respectful nature in which we boisterous louts learned to conduct ourselves. Many of the lessons Miss Anderson has taught us have resonated with me for various reasons. Perhaps my favourite lesson was learning how to say no politely because saying “no” is something I seem to be doing a lot of. However, it was discovering the “WIN” formula that has had a powerful impact on me. It has taught me how to be affirmative in telling others their actions have hurt me by saying “When you.. I felt.. Next time. In thinking about my time at the Academy, I considered what I had gained. And it was a lot. I have become more knowledgeable about what kind of person I would like to be and I understand the importance of conducting myself with dignity and respect. This is particularly true at school, where I learned to deal transition to year 7. Miss Anderson has given us life lessons that I can already see will be used over and over again. I take with me the “secret sauce” of appearing to listen, and will forever remember the laughter and respect we had for each other in each lesson. Once again, I would like to thank you all for attending tonight, my classmates, parents and most graciously, Miss Anderson.