My fellow Year 13s, I stand before you today as a proud Bedean.

5 years ago, we began our journey together at St Bede's. After reminiscing on the times, there have been many highlights and many learnings but the thing that has been the most special to me, is the brotherhood we have shared.

As we leave St Bede's College today, we all embark on a different journey. When I walked in those gates as a scrawny little Year 9 I instantly felt I was a part of something. Something bigger than myself. Something bigger than us all.

I often think, what is it that makes this place so special? For me it is the people. For sure, sporting and cultural success and academic achievements are meaningful, however they do not define us. What makes Bede's so special is the little things. The smiles and fun in the quad at lunchtime, the sense of belonging amongst the students, the grit and determination a Bedean has to work for his teammates, the effort in the class and things so small such as having a chat to that little Year 9 boy. These are the things that make St Bede's so special. 

I am very thankful that over my 5 years, St Bede's has provided me with so many opportunities, whether it be on the sports field or in the classroom. The opportunity to lead my fellow Bedeans has been something extremely special. One year ago today, if I’m being honest, I never really believed in myself. I stood and faced the year ahead, nervous but also excited to embrace this new challenge. Time has raced by and it has been truly amazing. I can say now how proud I am to have led this school and it is something I will hold close to me forever. I hope that I have contributed to the legacy of 2021 and that those who I have shared this journey with feel the same sense of belonging and connection that I do.

To the class of 2021. I will forever treasure the friendships I have made. Our time together has raced right past. We came in together as strangers but we leave as brothers. It has been a privilege to spend my time here with you all. Whilst we go our separate ways next year, the connection will remain strong. Being "Men of Bede" is what will bond us together in the years to come. 

In preparation for this speech, I spent time reflecting on what it means to be a "Man of Bede". Simply, it's a Bedean's actions and attitude that is significant, not what it was that he achieved. Sure, accolades and successes are great. But becoming a good man is the pinnacle of achievements in my eyes. When I see a "Man of Bede" I see spirit, I see faith, I see hard work and I see character. Men, in the years to come, do not let our measure of success be how wealthy we are, how famous we are or what our achievements are. Let our measure of success be what kind of man we are, are we a good friend? A good husband? A good father? That is what a true Bedean is measured on. Does he show what he believes through his actions? Does he serve others and do things, not for himself, but for the betterment of other people? The purpose of this place is not only the transition from boy to man, but it is also becoming the best version of ourselves that God created us to be. Faith, Service, Brotherhood. That is a true Bedean. 

I want to take the time now to thank some of the amazing people who have been with me throughout my time here at St Bede's. Firstly, my parents. Mum, I know you would have loved to be here today. Even though you can’t be here, I want to thank you for your ongoing support. You have always been the first person in my corner. I will always be grateful for all the sacrifices you have made for me, you always strive to give me the best shot at whatever it is that I'm doing. Dad, every day you challenge me to be better and I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. You have taught me and pushed me to be a determined and hardworking young man. I love you guys and I am forever grateful for the things that you do. 

Mr Boyle. It has been such a pleasure working with you this year. You have helped me realise a lot about myself and you have taught me to truly be a man of my faith and to always show what I believe through my actions. 

Mrs Pitcaithly, my second mother. I can't thank you enough for everything you have done for me this year. You have made it such a smooth ride and you have been someone who has always believed in me, even when I haven't believed in myself.

To all the other teachers, staff and coaches that I have been involved with in my 5 years here, I want to thank you also. I cannot promise that I will remember the things you taught me in class, but I will certainly remember the great people that you all are. 

To my deputies, Seamus and Jem, the prefect team, and all my Year 13 brothers. Thank you for the memories we have made, the friendships, the good times and the hard times. I will always cherish the moments we spent together. 

As we leave today, as we say goodbye, I want to say how proud I am of this place. It has been an absolute privilege to call this place my school, my home, my family. I love my school and I can genuinely say it will forever be a part of who I am. Fide et Opere men. 

God Bless you all