Bay Primary students told to plan, practice and produce as they start secondary school

By Brittany Brewster

The graduating class of Bay Primary School was encouraged to strive for excellence in their future pursuits, whether in academics, sports or music, as they embark on their secondary school from September.

Principal Heather Parris reminded the students that this excellence is not achieved overnight. She implored them to put in the work for what they want, regardless of what others may think of them.

During Tuesday’s graduation ceremony at the Hilton Barbados Resort at Needham’s Point, Bridgetown, St. Michael, Parris told students they could reach the excellence bar by working hard and staying dedicated.

[caption id="attachment_393387" align="alignnone" width="650"] Javanne WIltshire received a reward compliments Minister Kirk Humphrey for being the Most Improved Boy in Class 4 Warner-Harris.[/caption]

“You must first have passion because without it things will be done half-heartedly. Then, you must have a plan. You must believe in yourself and not let the opinions of others dissuade you from having self-confidence and believing in your abilities,” said Parris. [caption id="attachment_393388" align="alignnone" width="650"] Natasha Mason received a reward compliments Minister Kirk Humphrey for her sustained efforts in Language Arts and Mathematics.[/caption]

Under the theme, Be a winner: Let’s face life’s challenges with courage and purpose, featured speaker and past principal of the primary school, Marielon Gamble, told the 44 graduating students what they could do to be successful.   [caption id="attachment_393390" align="alignnone" width="650"] Malachi Massiah was rewarded for being the most outstanding student in Class 4 Warner-Harris.[/caption]

Gamble said students must be guided by the three P’s – plan, practice, and produce – to reach the goals they set for themselves.

Sharing the story of Sada Williams, Gamble said the Olympic athlete is an example the graduates should follow as they aim to be winners. [caption id="attachment_393391" align="alignnone" width="650"] Jario Evans receiving his award for Sports Personality of the year.[/caption]

“She demonstrated what it was or what it is to be successful through diligence. She represented Barbados in several athletic meets and produced after much planning and practising… And by her efforts, Sada became the first Barbadian female to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games. [caption id="attachment_393389" align="alignnone" width="650"] Parents and teachers were serenaded with songs by the graduating class of the Bay Primary School.[/caption]

“I want to remind you to be courageous and demonstrate this by being a positive role model, one who is diligent, honest, kind and an enthusiastic learner. Winners are really people who strive to succeed and stay the course regardless of the obstacles that confront them. I, therefore, encourage you graduates today to aim for the stars as you seek to be winners in all spheres of your life,” she said. [caption id="attachment_393394" align="alignnone" width="650"] Nairobi Webster was the 2023 recipient of the Grantley Osbourne Award of Excellence.[/caption]

Parliamentary representative for St. Michael South, Kirk Humphrey urged parents to look out for their children. [caption id="attachment_393396" align="alignnone" width="623"] Head Girl of the Bay Primary Dalila Philadelphia receiving her award for Leadership and a keen interest in the well-being of others.[/caption]

Noting that he has been advocating for the protection of children, Humphrey said that with the forces that are trying to take children, parents must understand that they have the primary responsibility for their children and must make every effort to spend time with them and talk to them. 

brittanybrewster@barbadostoday.bb ]]>