On the afternoon of June 6, 2026, the school hall of St. Joan of Arc Secondary School buzzed with immense energy and joy. Students, staff, parents, and distinguished guests gathered for the annual Speech Day to celebrate the remarkable achievements and graduation of the Class of 2026. This milestone event beautifully highlighted the school’s core mission: to put Catholic faith into action, to provide a nurturing space where students can grow in Christ, and to foster a caring culture that delivers a truly all-round education.
The ceremony commenced with great dignity as the official party entered the hall, followed by a solemn national flag-raising ceremony. As the national anthem filled the room, it instilled a profound sense of civic responsibility, a key pillar of the school’s motto—among the graduating S6 students as they prepare to step out into society as conscientious citizens.
While the School Supervisor, Mr. Chuen Kwok Wai Santiago, was unable to attend in person, he made sure to send his warmest blessings. Through a heartfelt pre-recorded video message, Mr. Chuen cheered on the graduates and reminded them that the bonds formed within the St. Joan of Arc family will always keep them connected.
Next, the School Principal, Mr. Yuen Cheung Oi, presented the annual school report, highlighting the institution's outstanding achievements in both academic and extracurricular activities over the past year. A major success story was the 2025 HKDSE examination results, where the passing rate for the four core subjects stood comfortably above 70%.
Principal Yuen also proudly shared that Joanians brought home more than 60 individual and team awards across various sports, arts, and academic competitions. He noted that these accolades perfectly demonstrate how students are living out the school's mission of pursuing an all-round education. He concluded his report by offering his warmest blessings to the S6 graduates, adding that it had been an absolute joy to watch them mature into confident, compassionate young adults rooted in Christ.
The excitement continued as the Guest of Honor, Rev. Stephen Ip, took the stage to present certificates and prizes to the graduating cohort. Enthusiastic applause echoed through the hall as students walked across the stage, showcasing the wonderful fruits of the school's supportive and caring culture.
Following the presentation, Rev. Ip delivered an inspiring address that gave the audience profound food for thought. He encouraged the graduates to view learning as a lifelong journey and to adapt boldly to change in an ever-shifting world. Most importantly, he urged them to embrace gratitude—to thank God, their families, and their teachers for supporting them every single step of the way.
Representing the graduating class, two S6 girls then stepped up to the microphone to deliver a moving vote of thanks. On behalf of their peers, they expressed deep appreciation for the diverse and rich learning opportunities provided by the school over the years. They spoke fondly of how much they would miss the energetic campus life and, above all, the priceless, lifelong friendships they built during their six years at the school.
Moved by these words, the S6 students took center stage for a special graduation performance. Through a touching display of music and shared memories, they expressed their deep gratitude to the school that has served as their second home for the past six years. It was a beautiful example of faith in action that brought smiles—and a few happy tears—to parents and teachers alike.
The memorable ceremony came to a triumphant close as the entire hall stood in unison to sing the school song. With the final notes ringing out, the Class of 2026 stood ready to take on the future, fully equipped with knowledge, civic pride, and the spiritual strength to make a positive difference in the world.