Graduation & Departures

Overview

The final days of Hainan Winter 2026 bring celebration, recognition, and farewell. This guide covers presentations, graduation ceremony, and departure logistics - ensuring students leave with pride in their achievements and fond memories of their experience.

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Presentation Days

Presentations are high-stakes moments showcasing student learning. Format differs by age group.

Presentation Structure by Age

6-8 Year Olds (Survival English Course)

Group presentations (not individual):

• Students stand together as a class/group
• Read basic prepared statements about their stay
• Simple language patterns: "I learned...", "I liked...", "My favorite..."
• Very short duration: 2-3 minutes total per group
• Emphasis on participation and effort, not accuracy
• Low pressure, high encouragement
• Teachers provide heavy scaffolding

Example script template:

Hello! We are [Class Name].
We learned English for two weeks.
We learned about [SDG topic].
I liked [activity]. (Each student says one thing)
My favorite was [memory].
Thank you!

Teacher role:

• Help students memorize lines
• Practice as group multiple times
• Stand with them during presentation
• Prompt if needed
• Celebrate effort enthusiastically

9-15 Year Olds (SDG Immersion Courses)

Individual or pair presentations:

• SDG topic research and informed opinions
• Duration: 5-7 minutes each
• Includes Q&A from audience (2-3 questions)
• Visual aids required (slides, posters, or physical displays)
• More independent preparation
• Higher academic expectations

Presentation components:

1. Introduction: Topic and why it matters
2. Information: SDG issue explanation and examples
3. Opinion/Solutions: Student's perspective and ideas
4. Conclusion: Summary and call to action
5. Q&A: Answer audience questions

Assessment criteria 📝 [TBC: Specific rubric]:

• Content: Depth of understanding, relevant information
• Delivery: Voice volume, eye contact, confidence
• Language: Accuracy, vocabulary range, fluency
• Engagement: Visual aids quality, audience connection

In-Class Presentation Process

All presentations delivered in class first (NOT publicly at ceremony):

Week 2, Days 8-10: In-class presentations

Process:

1. Students present to their class (low-stakes, supportive environment)
2. Teachers mark against criteria during/immediately after
3. Classmates provide positive feedback
4. Teachers give written feedback to each student
5. Best presentations selected for graduation ceremony showcase

Selection criteria for ceremony:

• Quality of content and delivery
• Confidence and readiness
• Representation across topics/students
• Timing (ceremony schedule constraints)

Not selected?

• Still assessed fairly (grade not dependent on ceremony selection)
• Still receive full written feedback
• Video of their presentation included in portfolio
• Reduces pressure - not everyone performs publicly

Benefits of this system:

• Everyone gets assessed equally
• Ceremony showcases best work
• Students have low-pressure practice
• Teachers can provide detailed feedback
• Ceremony timing stays reasonable

Assessment & Feedback

Assessment is light and encouraging:

• Focus on progress and growth, not perfection
• Criteria-based marking (transparent rubric)
• Written comments highlighting strengths and improvements
• Suggestions for continued development
• Celebratory tone

Teacher feedback includes:

• What went well (specific examples)
• What improved since beginning of program
• Areas for continued practice
• Recognition of effort and courage
• Encouragement for future English learning

Volunteer role:

• Compile daily observation notes throughout program
• Log positive moments and participation examples
• Gather quotes and specific memories
• Teachers add academic detail and formal assessment

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Graduation Ceremony

The final day brings celebration and recognition of student achievements.

Ceremony Overview

📝 [CUSTOMIZE: Specific timing and location for your program]

When: Final program day (likely Wednesday, February 26th)
Where: Main assembly hall or outdoor space
Duration: 90-120 minutes
Audience: Students, staff, Group Leaders, possibly parents

Tone: Celebratory, proud, emotional, inspiring

Ceremony Schedule & Format

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Setup & Rehearsal

• Stage/seating arrangement
• Technology check (microphones, slides, video)
• Selected students practice presentations
• Staff role confirmation
• Music playlist ready

10:00 AM: Ceremony Begins

1. Welcome & Reflection (10 minutes)

Speaker: Sean (Program Director)

Content:

• Welcome students, staff, Group Leaders, parents (if present)
• Reflect on program journey (arrival to now)
• Acknowledge challenges overcome
• Celebrate community built
• Thank staff, Group Leaders, students for commitment

Tone: Warm, proud, grateful

2. Academic Highlights (15 minutes)

Speaker: Ricky (Centre Manager & Director of Studies)

Content:

• Overview of curriculum and learning journey
• SDG themes explored
• Key skills developed
• Showcase of student work (photos on screen)
• Anecdotes and memorable moments
• Academic achievements celebrated

Visuals: Photo slideshow of lessons, activities, projects

3. Student Performances (40-50 minutes)

Selected best presentations from each class/age group

Format:

• Brief introduction of each presenter/group
• Presentation delivered
• Applause and celebration
• Transition to next

Distribution:

• 2-3 presentations from 6-8 year olds (group format)
• 6-8 presentations from 9-15 year olds (individual/pairs)
• Variety of SDG topics represented
• Mix of class levels

Tech support:

• Staff cue slides/videos
• Microphone assistance
• Smooth transitions
• Video recording

4. Scholarship Announcements (10 minutes)

Speaker: Sean (Program Director)

5000 yuan scholarships awarded to 4 outstanding students:

• One scholarship per age group: 6-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-15 years
• Criteria 📝 [TBC: Specific criteria - academic progress? Effort? Participation? Combination?]
• Individual recognition and applause
• Brief description of why each student earned scholarship
• Photo opportunity
• Certificates presented

Tone: Prestigious, exciting, well-deserved recognition

5. Certificate Presentation (25-30 minutes)

All students receive CSIA certificate

Format:

• Students called individually or in small groups
• Walk across stage
• Receive certificate from Sean and Ricky
• Handshake and photo opportunity
• Return to seats with certificate

CSIA Certificate:

• Cambridge Scholars Innovative Academy branding
• Gives program credibility through Cambridge University association
• Student name, program name, dates
• Signatures from Sean (Program Director) and Ricky (Centre Manager)
• Professional appearance

Efficiency:

• Clear calling order (alphabetical or by class)
• Smooth flow (students know where to go)
• Photography coordinated (designated photographer)
• Background music during presentations

6. Thank You Messages (5-10 minutes)

Student representatives (2-3 selected students):

• Brief thank you speech
• Favorite memories
• What they learned
• Gratitude to teachers and staff

Staff message (1-2 staff members):

• Pride in students' growth
• Highlight memorable moments
• Encouragement for continued English learning
• Stay connected message

Tone: Heartfelt, emotional, authentic

7. Closing Remarks (5 minutes)

Speaker: Sean (Program Director)

Content:

• Final celebration of achievements
• Looking forward - how to continue English journey
• Staying connected (social media, future programs)
• Final thank you and farewell
• Invitation to final lunch and farewells

Ending: Group photo, music, applause!

Behind-the-Scenes Roles

Ceremony requires coordination:

Coordinator (Academic Coordinator):

• Overall timing and flow
• Cue speakers and performers
• Troubleshoot issues

Technology (designated staff):

• Microphones working
• Slideshow/videos ready
• Music playlist
• Video recording

Photography/Videography (volunteers + designated staff):

• Capture all presentations
• Certificate photos
• Candid moments
• Group photos after

Student Wranglers (teachers):

• Keep students organized
• Cue presenters when to go
• Manage certificate line
• Support nervous students

Setup/Logistics (all hands):

• Chairs and stage arrangement
• Decoration (tasteful and celebratory)
• Certificate organization (alphabetical)
• Scholarship certificates ready

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Final Reports & Documentation

End-of-Program Reports

Each student receives comprehensive report:

Components:

1. CSIA Certificate (already received at ceremony)
2. Progress Report with:
   • Personal comments from teachers
   • Observation notes compiled by volunteers
   • Academic achievements
   • Areas of growth
   • Skills developed
   • Recommendations for continued learning
3. Video Evidence: Compilation of student speaking English (authentic interactions)
4. Possibly: Individual reference letter (for strong students, if time permits)
5. Group Photos: Digital and/or printed

Report Format 📝 [TBC: Template format - printed booklet? Digital PDF? Both?]

Report sections:

• Header: Student name, program dates, class/level
• Summary: Overview of program and student participation
• Attendance: Days present (auto-generated)
• Assessment Scores: Placement test, presentation grade (criteria-based)
• Skills Development: Speaking, listening, reading, writing progress
• Personal Comments: Compiled throughout program by volunteers and teachers
• Recommendations: Next steps for English learning
• Signatures: Teacher and Centre Manager

Report Compilation Process

Throughout Program:

• Volunteers: Daily observation logs, positive notes, memorable quotes
• Teachers: Academic observations, assessment results, specific feedback

Week 2, Days 11-13:

• Volunteers compile notes into organized format
• Teachers review and add academic detail
• Auto-generated sections populated (attendance, scores)
• Proofreading for errors
• Reports printed/formatted

Distribution:

• At graduation ceremony OR
• Handed to parents/Group Leaders at departure OR
• Mailed/emailed after program (if final touches needed)

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Departure Day Logistics

Final Day Schedule

📝 [TBC: Specific timing for your program - likely February 26th]

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Graduation Ceremony (see above)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Farewell Activities

• Group photos (whole program, individual classes, candid shots)
• Yearbook signing / T-shirt signing
• Memory sharing (slideshow playing in background)
• Individual farewells with staff and friends
• Emotional support for tearful students

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Final Lunch Together

• Last meal as program community
• Relaxed, celebratory atmosphere
• Staff circulate and engage
• Memorable sendoff

1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Feedback Collection

• Student surveys: Paper or digital feedback (keep short - 10 questions max)
• Honest feedback for program improvement
• Optional - not forced

Feedback questions (examples):

1. What was your favorite activity/excursion?
2. What did you learn?
3. What would you change about the program?
4. How do you feel about your English now compared to two weeks ago?
5. Would you recommend this program to a friend? Why?
6. What was the most challenging part?
7. What surprised you?
8. What will you remember most?
9. How was the food/accommodation? (if applicable)
10. Any suggestions for future programs?

2:00 PM onwards: Staggered Departures

Departure Checklist (Per Student)

Before leaving:

• Room checked thoroughly (nothing left behind)
• Accommodation key returned
• All belongings packed
• Certificate and reports in hand
• Any awards/prizes collected
• Final goodbye to staff and friends
• Parent/guardian contacted and arrival confirmed
• Student marked off register (departed)

Staff responsibilities:

• Luggage assistance
• Emotional support
• Ensure safe handoff to parent/Group Leader/transport
• Final Count for each departing group
• Document departure time

Transport Arrangements

📝 [TBC: Specific transport arrangements for your program]

Typical patterns:

• Airport/station transport organized by Group Leaders
• Staff escorts for groups going to airport
• Individual departures met by parents/guardians
• Staggered timing based on flight/train schedules

Staff escort duties (if applicable):

• Accompany group to airport/station
• Ensure check-in completed
• Stay until group through security
• Final Count before leaving group
• Confirmation message to Program Director

Final Handoffs

To Group Leaders:

• Student reports and certificates (if not already distributed)
• Medical information return (if held)
• Any student belongings left behind
• Final communication about student progress
• Thank you for collaboration

To Parents (if present):

• Certificate and report
• Personal conversation about student progress
• Contact information for future programs
• Thank you for trust

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Staff Closure Tasks

Immediately After Last Student Departs

Staff debrief (30-60 minutes):

• Celebrate what went well!
• Acknowledge challenges faced
• Share favorite memories
• Thank each other genuinely
• Lessons learned for future programs

Tone: Reflective, grateful, proud

Remaining Closure Tasks

📝 [TBC: Specific timeline for staff departures]

Typically 1-2 days after student departures:

Classroom & Materials:

• Pack teaching materials
• Clean and organize classrooms
• Return borrowed items
• Submit materials inventory

Documentation:

• Finalize attendance records
• Complete any remaining reports
• Compile feedback (student + staff)
• Submit photos/videos to coordinator
• Write program reflection notes

Accommodation:

• Check rooms and tidy
• Return keys
• Remove personal belongings
• Leave accommodation as found

Administrative:

• Submit expense reports (if applicable)
• Complete staff evaluation forms
• Return any program equipment
• Confirm departure transport

Celebration:

• Staff farewell dinner or gathering
• Exchange contact information
• Stay connected commitments
• Pat yourselves on the back - you did it!

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Emotional Considerations

For Students

Common emotions:

• Sadness about leaving friends
• Pride in achievements
• Excitement to see family
• Nervousness about transitions
• Mixed feelings

How to support:

• Acknowledge emotions are normal
• Celebrate growth and achievements
• Exchange contact information (appropriate methods)
• Encourage continued English practice
• Stay positive and encouraging

For tearful students:

• Private space if needed
• Empathy and validation
• Focus on positive memories
• Remind them of staying connected
• Don't dismiss feelings

For Staff

You might feel:

• Exhausted but accomplished
• Emotional about goodbyes
• Proud of students' growth
• Sad program is ending
• Relieved to rest!

Normal and expected:

• Two weeks is intense and bonding
• You've made real impact
• It's okay to be emotional
• Take time to decompress
• Celebrate your contribution

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Contact Information Post-Program

📝 [CUSTOMIZE: How students can stay connected]

Possible channels:

• Program social media pages (Facebook, Instagram)
• Alumni group (WeChat, WhatsApp)
• Email newsletters
• Future program invitations
• Reference letter requests

Boundaries:

• No personal contact information exchange (staff-student)
• All communication through official channels
• Safeguarding protocols maintained

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Quick Reference: Final Week Timeline

Day	Event	Focus
Day 11-12	In-class presentations	All students present, teachers mark
Day 12-13	Report compilation	Volunteers + teachers finalize reports
Day 13	Ceremony rehearsal	Selected students practice, tech check
Day 14 Morning	Graduation ceremony	Celebration and certificate presentation
Day 14 Midday	Final lunch & feedback	Community meal, survey collection
Day 14 Afternoon	Staggered departures	Safe handoffs, farewells
Day 14-15	Staff closure	Debrief, packing, documentation

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Related Induction Guides

TIME SPECIFIC

• Main Induction - Program overview and general information
• Centre Setup & Arrivals - Pre-program prep and Day 1 procedures
• Excursions - Excursion procedures and safeguarding

STAFF SPECIFIC

• Teachers - Teaching methodology and classroom management
• Volunteers - Volunteer roles and responsibilities

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The final days are bittersweet - celebrate the amazing work done while saying goodbye to wonderful students. You've made a real difference in their English journey!