Reaching the end of second semester signifies a meaningful milestone when you’re in primary school.

This year we had graduates from Grade 1, Grade 2 and Grade 4. Naturally they all shone in their own little way and of course I was as proud as punch.

 I’ve had plenty of opportune to feel my heart swell with pride as a Mum of many, however nothing quite prepared me for the emotions that enveloped me in the Great Hall at the University of Queensland when my little girl, dressed in trencher and Cambridge gown, took those 10 steps across the stage to shake the hand of the Deputy Chancellor, and be given a graduand scroll. Tess’ years of formal education had been completed and she now held a Bachelor of Business Management. A meaningful milestone.

We were fortunate to be able to fly to Brisbane as a family to celebrate the occasion and enjoy with Tess, her moments of reflection on years of dedication, hard work and discipline.

We stopped amongst the sandstone pillars of the University’s Great Court and captured the moment.

The significance of the graduation was not lost on her siblings.

And they were all quite keen to try the hat on for size.

Little eyes and young minds were awash with opportunities in this big world.

The kids were all familiar with Tess being away at Uni but to see the grandeur of sandstone buildings and the euphoria felt by hundreds of graduands who had expanded their opportunities and options, certainly grew their horizons.

While formal education is significant, Tess is first to tell the little ones that they are already enrolled in the University of Life, and just like formal study, it is a journey of highs and lows, and it requires dedication and discipline and it really is all about the journey rather than the destination.

On arriving home, Eliza set about reaching her next meaningful  milestone, becoming an independent buggy driver.

Learning never ends ……

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