Mr. Speaker,
Of the 135 graduates from The Berkeley Institute and the 94 graduates from CedarBridge Academy, I am pleased to report that this year recorded an increase in graduates who have applied to the Bermuda College. We have a total of 109 students from The Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy enrolled at the Bermuda College. This is up from 85 students last year, a difference of 24 students. This is in spite of the total number of graduates decreasing this year by 6 from last year’s total.
You will be reminded that in the Throne Speech this year the Government introduced the merit-based College Promise Programme, awarding scholarships to public school graduates with appropriate GPA’s who wish to attend Bermuda College. It has been noted that the increase in public school graduates enrolling in the Bermuda College is due, in large part, to the introduction of the College Promise Programme.
Mr. Speaker,
The Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy graduates are amazing; and they have made their parents, the senior schools and all of us proud. I wish every graduate continued success in the future, and I definitely look forward to hearing about their personal achievements and collective contributions to our Island as they mature into our future leaders.
Mr. Speaker,
I am very much encouraged by the accomplishments and successes of our public school senior graduates. I extend a sincere thank you to all the teaching staff, support and administrative staff at the two public senior schools under the competent leadership of Ms. Keisha Douglas at the Berkeley Institute and Mr. Kenneth Caesar at CedarBridge Academy.
Mr. Speaker,
This Government will continue to work diligently to create opportunities for students in the Bermuda Public School System so that they can thrive, succeed and achieve their goals, dreams and aspirations.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker!