Six Years’ Dawn, Six Years’ Growth – Flag-raising Ceremony by Qinglong House

A Morning Ritual

At 08：00 on 16 June, we were fortunate to welcome a beautifully clear morning amidst the rainy season. The Middle School flag-raising team marched in unison, evoking memories of similar ceremonies from the past six years. As the national anthem played, the red flag symbolized how countless individuals had grown together into a united “us.”

Stars of May: Light That Grows

Continuing the May flag-raising ceremony theme from Zhuque Academy—Cultural Confidence—we honoured students who embody grace, kindness, and etiquette. Their small acts of excellence reflect the true spirit of Xiehe: education lives in the details.

A Hall of Time: 2021-2025

Graduation photos from previous years appeared on the screen, capturing students in moments of growth and transformation. Each image reminded us that we are not only witnessing history—we are helping to shape it.

Torch Relay of Unity

On the track, Billy, a SUIS Qingpu alumnus from the Class of 2024, handed a burning torch to student representatives from the Class of 2025 across high school, middle school, primary school, and kindergarten. This symbolic relay—bridging 14 age groups—wove together Xiehe’s past and future. At SUIS Qingpu, ‘holistic education’ is more than a concept – it is embodied through connection, warmth, and enduring continuity.

The Story of Us

Alumni representative Billy and high school graduate Viola delivered speeches reflecting on the people they strive not to become, revealing a strong sense of clarity and self-awareness in a complex world. “I don’t want to be a prisoner of the digital age,” “I don’t want to be a blind observer”… their words resonated with a deep desire to remain true to themselves—courageous, authentic, and firmly rooted in their values.

As the eighth graders sang The First Day with bright, youthful voices— “I see in your eyes an expectation for a different future”—the spirit of youth came alive. Arms swayed, and gradually, more students joined in, lending their voices to a chorus that felt truly our own.

Teacher representatives from the Primary Division and Administrative Department brought the audience to their feet with a heartfelt adaptation of Growing in SUIS, igniting another surge of excitement. “No need to always push so hard. Just love what you do with all your heart.” As the rap verse reached its peak, glistening tears filled the eyes of both teachers and students—a poignant reminder that the seeds they once nurtured together were now blooming into beautiful, unforeseen possibilities.

History in the Making

Following the announcement of the House Cup winner—Xuanwu House—by Principals Ms. Sunny Huang and Dr. Adam Neufield, the school leaders energized the audience with an electrifying countdown. Turquoise fireworks lit up the sky, marking the start of SUIS Qingpu’s 6th anniversary celebrations.

At SUIS Qingpu, every spark contributes to a greater constellation. These six years are not a conclusion but a launchpad—the spirit of “us” propels a meaningful legacy into the future.