On 12 June 2026, EtonHouse International School Orchard came together in celebration as the Class of 2026 marked their graduation alongside families, educators and friends.

While the evening celebrated an important academic milestone, it was also a reflection on something less easily measured: who our graduates have become. Through challenges and achievements, friendships and shared experiences, they have grown into thoughtful, curious and confident young people, ready to take their next steps beyond EtonHouse.

Philip Gray, Head of Upper School, captured this sentiment as he addressed the graduating class. “Tonight marks the end of your time here, but more importantly, the beginning of everything that comes next. And while results, university offers, and future plans all matter, what stands out most to us as teachers is who you've become along the way.”

He also reflected on the close-knit community that has shaped their school experience. “Students don't just pass through and get forgotten about here. There's something genuinely unique about the relationships you build, the shared experiences, and the way each year group leaves its mark.”

Those relationships were at the heart of Tatim Koonphol’s reflections as a Student Representative of the Class of 2026. “The love and support this school has given me is unlike any I have ever experienced before, and I'm sure we all feel the same,” Tatim shared, paying tribute to the educators who supported the cohort throughout their journey. “I am certain that every teacher in this room has gone above and beyond for all of us students to succeed. There is no doubt that you have helped us mature into wonderful people.”

Tatim also reminded classmates that although graduation takes them in different directions, the connections they have formed do not end here. “Remember that the Class of 2026 will always be connected through our experience here at EtonHouse. So reach out, keep in touch, and check in on one another. How lucky are we to have experienced something that makes saying goodbye so hard?”

For fellow Student Representative Samantha Liu, some of the most meaningful lessons came from experiences beyond the classroom. Through EtonCore, the cohort volunteered at the National University Hospital and EtonHouse International School Claymore, while also raising funds and awareness for the Mono Food Bank and the Women’s Shelter.

“These experiences have enriched us with new perspectives on career roles in the future, content for our personal statements, and most importantly, appreciation for all those who serve our community,” Samantha reflected.

Samantha also spoke candidly about her own ambition to study medicine in the UK and the challenges she encountered along the way. “It was a really tough journey with many bumps in the road, yet through the help of my teachers and Mr Randall, I moved on from past mistakes and approached my dreams from a new perspective.” Her story reflected an important part of the EtonHouse journey: learning from setbacks, remaining open to new perspectives and finding the confidence to keep moving towards one's aspirations.

Looking towards the world the graduates will enter, Evelyn Tay, CEO of Singapore, Bhutan & Group Chief Human Resource Officer for EtonHouse International Education Group, reflected on the enduring value of the skills they have developed at school.

“So in many ways, your education at EtonHouse has prepared you well for this future. You have learned to be curious, you have learned to question, you have learned to work with people who may not think the same as you, and you have learned to communicate your ideas and defend them thoughtfully,” she said. “And these capabilities cannot be automated.”

Her words offered a fitting reminder that preparation for the future goes beyond academic knowledge. The ability to think independently, listen to different perspectives, communicate with purpose and remain curious will continue to matter wherever the Class of 2026 goes next.

Principal Robert Randall brought the ceremony to a poignant close, acknowledging both the people who had supported the graduates and the independence they had developed along the way.

“Class of 2026, the hands that steadied you, your parents, your teachers, have done their work. The lessons have been learned. You are stronger than you know. The road ahead is yours now.”

And with one final encouragement, he sent the graduates towards their next chapter:

“Congratulations, Class of 2026. Now go fly.”

The Class of 2026 leaves EtonHouse with much more than academic achievements. They leave with friendships that have shaped them, experiences that have broadened their perspectives, and the curiosity, confidence and character to navigate what comes next.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! Wherever your paths may lead, you will always carry a part of EtonHouse, and of one another, with you.