The ceremony honoured 68 exceptional students who have grown, challenged themselves, and made a lasting impact on the school community. It was an afternoon filled with pride, laughter, reflection and a few tears, as students, families and teachers gathered to mark how far they have come and the exciting journeys ahead.
Adding distinction to the occasion was the presence of the British Deputy Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr Alex Strugnell, who congratulated the graduates. Addressing the Class of 2026, he shared:
"Schools like BIS represent the very best of international collaboration, combining academic excellence, cultural exchange and a commitment to developing thoughtful, principled and capable young people. When I look at you today, I feel not only excited for your future but optimistic about the contribution you will make to the world.”
The ceremony also featured two distinguished alumni speakers, showcasing the diverse global pathways of BIS Hanoi graduates.
Mr Tran Quoc Hung (Adrian), former Valedictorian of the Class of 2016, is now a Software Engineer at NVIDIA. He was joined by Mr Mai Thao Bac Dung, former Valedictorian of the Class of 2023, who is currently studying Global Humanitarian Studies at University College London (UCL) and serving as Head of External Affairs at the Vietnamese Students’ Association in the United Kingdom (SVUK). They shared their experiences with the graduates and paid tribute to the teachers who guided them through their BIS journey. They also reflected on the value of learning alongside people from different cultures.
"BIS has already given us a foundation: how to organise, analyse, question, collaborate and speak with confidence. We were encouraged to contribute, build on each other’s ideas and disagree respectfully. That habit stayed with me and continues to shape how I learn today," said Bac Dung. "The school taught us how to understand why others see the world differently, to reflect on our own perspectives, and to find common ground. In an interconnected world, that may be one of the most important lessons we take with us."
One of the most touching moments of the ceremony came during the valedictory speech by Judy from the Class of 2026. Speaking on behalf of her year group, she encouraged her classmates to appreciate the experiences and people who have shaped them, "We are here because of who we met, the risks we took, and the experiences that changed us along the way. Our lives are connected stories, so rather than tearing out previous chapters, choose to appreciate and thank the person you once were."
As the ceremony drew to a close and graduation caps filled the air, there was a strong sense of gratitude and celebration throughout the ballroom. The Class of 2026 now leave BIS Hanoi with outstanding achievements, lifelong friendships, and the resilience, compassion, and Lionheart spirit that will guide them wherever they go. Having just completed their final IB Diploma Programme exams, the graduates now await their results, due in early July. Collectively, the Class of 2026 has received early offers from a wide range of leading universities worldwide, including Yale University, the University of Cambridge, University College London (UCL), the University of California Berkeley (UCB), the London School of Economics (LSE), King's College London, the University of Toronto, the University of Melbourne, KAIST, the University of Hong Kong and many more.
In his message, Head of Secondary Lee Falconer reminded students that success is never achieved alone:
"As you move forward into universities, careers and new adventures, remember that success is never truly an individual achievement. So much of what we accomplish is possible because of the love, guidance and support of others. Carry that lesson with you, and one day, be that source of support for someone else."
Once again, congratulations, Class of 2026! We are immensely proud of everything you have achieved. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, know that you will always be part of the BIS Hanoi family, and we cannot wait to see where your journeys take you.
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