Every school year carries its own stories of determination, discovery, and achievement. For Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, one of the most cherished traditions that bring these stories to light is the annual Speech and Prize-Giving Day. It is more than just a ceremony—it is a vibrant celebration of learning, character, and community.
This event has grown to become a highlight of the academic calendar, eagerly anticipated by pupils, students, parents, teachers, and even alumni. On this day, the entire school community gathers to reflect on the past year’s successes, to honor outstanding performances, and to reaffirm the school’s commitment to excellence.
A Day of Joy and Anticipation
From the moment the first decorations go up, excitement begins to fill the air. Pupils at Verbum Dei Academy chatter about who might win “Best in Class,” while older students at Verbum Dei International College prepare for cultural performances and speeches. Parents look forward to watching their children showcase their talents, and teachers quietly take pride in seeing the fruits of their guidance.
The event usually begins with a grand procession. Students, dressed smartly in their school uniforms or performance costumes, march in with confidence. The school leadership delivers opening speeches that set the tone, reminding everyone that excellence is not accidental but the result of hard work, discipline, and determination.
The Spirit of Recognition
At its heart, Prize-Giving Day is about recognition. Awards are presented in different categories:
- Academic performance (Best in Mathematics, English, Science, etc.)
- Character awards (Punctuality, Neatness, Leadership, Team Spirit)
- Extracurricular achievements (Sports, Music, Debate, Arts)
For the little ones in the nursery and primary section, receiving a certificate on stage can feel like winning a world championship. Parents beam with pride as cameras flash. At Verbum Dei Academy, teachers often encourage every child to clap for their classmates, teaching them to celebrate others’ success.
For the older students in the secondary section, recognition comes with greater responsibility. At Verbum Dei International College, an award for “Best in Leadership” or “Overall Best Student” is more than just a prize—it is a call to be a role model. These moments shape students’ confidence and inspire them to keep aiming higher.
More Than Awards
While the prize-giving segment is the centerpiece, the event is rich with other activities. Pupils present poems, cultural dances, and short plays that carry moral lessons. The school choir fills the hall with melodious songs, and selected students deliver speeches on themes like “The Value of Education” or “Discipline as a Path to Success.”
These performances give children the opportunity to showcase their talents beyond the classroom. Parents often remark that they discover new sides of their children during these events—whether it is a shy child reciting a poem boldly or a reserved student leading a group performance.
At Verbum Dei Schools, the stage is seen as an extension of the classroom, a place where confidence, creativity, and public speaking skills are nurtured.
Why This Tradition Matters
Speech and Prize-Giving Day is more than just an annual ceremony—it plays a vital role in the school’s educational philosophy.
- Motivation for Pupils and Students
Recognition fuels ambition. When younger pupils see their peers walking up the stage, they feel inspired to work harder. Older students take pride in their achievements and set new goals for the future. - Parental Involvement
Events like these strengthen the home-school bond. Parents witness firsthand the values being instilled in their children and become more engaged in their academic journey. - Celebration of Holistic Development
At Verbum Dei, education is not just about passing exams. It is about developing well-rounded individuals who excel academically, socially, and morally. Speech and Prize-Giving Day celebrates this holistic growth. - Reinforcing School Identity
The event reinforces the school’s identity as a place of excellence. It reminds both students and parents that Verbum Dei Academy and International College are not just institutions of learning, but communities where values, talents, and achievements are nurtured.
Voices from the Community
Parents often share their reflections after the event:
- “I am grateful to Verbum Dei for recognizing not only academic excellence but also good character. It motivates my child to be disciplined at home as well.”
- “This ceremony reminded me of why I chose this school—the balance between learning and character formation is evident.”
Students too carry their memories with pride:
- “When I received my award, I felt like all my late-night studies were worth it.” (Student, Verbum Dei International College)
- “I didn’t win a prize this year, but watching my classmates go on stage has motivated me for next year.” (Pupil, Verbum Dei Academy)
Looking Ahead
As each Speech and Prize-Giving Day draws to a close, the school community leaves with a renewed sense of purpose. For the pupils of Verbum Dei Academy, it sparks dreams of academic success. For the students of Verbum Dei International College, it cements the values of leadership and responsibility. For the parents and teachers, it is a reminder of the shared mission: to raise disciplined, talented, and confident leaders for tomorrow.
In the end, the trophies and certificates may fade with time, but the memories, lessons, and inspiration from this cherished tradition live on in the hearts of every Verbum Dei child.
