On the  September 1st, the new first-grade students at SHSID Hongkou Campus celebrated a significant milestone in their lives: the first Opening Ceremony at primary school. The campus was filled with anticipation and childlike wonder.

The ceremony kicked off enthusiastically with host Mr. Callum. Using lively and cheerful language, he welcomed each "little newbie," quickly bridging the distance between the children and creating a warm and bustling atmosphere.

Next, a holiday video that was specially produced for these freshly arrived students was played on the big screen— the teacher had collected clips of the first graders preparing for primary school during their summer holiday and edited them into a heartfelt film. Seeing themselves on screen, the children couldn't help but cheer and laugh with glee.

Then came the familiarization session for the new campus. To start with, the first-grade homeroom and subject teachers took the stage one by one, greeting the children warmly, introducing themselves, and sharing opening ceremony wishes. Afterwards, senior student representative Josephine from 3-2 offered practical tips for school life to the first graders— including balancing learning and playing, making time schedules, and solving problems in order from easiest to hardest— all to help them adapt better to school life. The teachers' warm smiles, encouraging words, and the vivid sharing from their senior schoolmate made the children feel the kindness and care of the campus community.

Following this, the most anticipated moment arrived! The school had prepared a large symbolic golden key for the first graders, representing that in the new semester, the children will unlock the door to knowledge, friendship, and growth. Ms. Zhu Dan, Director of SHSID Hongkou Campus, held the golden key on stage, while class representatives held the mini versions, and the children shouted together:"We are ready to begin our journey!"

Guiding them on to their journey, the four first-grade homeroom teachers then took the stage holding four mysterious letters: H.E.R.O. Each letter represented an important quality the school hopes the children will develop. H for Honesty, E for Etiquette, R for Respect, and O for Organization. Through the teachers' introductions, the first graders together raised their right hands to pledge:"We are ready to become HEROes." In the future, they will learn more about these core values in personal growth classes.

Ms. Zhu Dan also gave a speech warmly welcoming all children to the Hongkou Campus family and encouraging them to learn happily, explore bravely, and grow confidently here. She introduced the special "Welcome Kits" prepared by the school for the first graders, which included both practical supplies and thoughtful little surprises, carrying the school's best wishes for the children in the new semester.

Immediately after, the second and third graders at Hongkou Campus welcomed their new semester with an opening ceremony themed "Journey to Discovery and Growth." 

The ceremony began with an energetic opening by Ms. Nina. Centered on the values of "Explore, Learn and Shine Together," she interacted warmly with the students, quickly igniting the atmosphere. Through a highlights video, students revisited memorable events like Reading Month, the Charity Fair, the Chinese Culture Week and STEAM Week, which brought back wonderful memories for everyone.

Cynthia from Class 2-2 shared her journey from first to second grade, reflecting on her growth from being shy to proactively helping classmates, learning time management, and participating joyfully in various activities. Milton from Class 3-1 spoke about his path to becoming an independent learner, introducing his self-created "HERO method" and emphasizing the use of planning tools, self-made quizzes, and regular reflection to develop autonomy, demonstrating the self-management and deeper thinking  skills of third graders.

The most exciting part was the awards announcement. The school presented multiple awards, including "Most Independent Learner," "Most Incredible Achievement," and "Super HERO," to recognize students who excelled in various areas. Award winners stepped onto the stage one by one to receive certificates and prizes, their efforts and achievements celebrated with enthusiastic applause. 

At the close of the ceremony, each student received a carefully prepared Welcome Kit, which included SHSID 160th-anniversary stickers and commemorative water bottles, embodying the teachers' heartfelt blessings. Ms. Zhu Dan explained the gifts inside and their meanings. She shared a message for the new semester, encouraging everyone to stay curious, explore courageously, and grow together in the year ahead.

Led by Ms. Nina, the second and third graders cheered in unison with powerful voices:"Together, we grow stronger!" lifting the ceremony to a climax and voicing their confidence and determination for the new semester. Finally, each class took turns coming on stage for group photos, bringing a perfect close to this meaningful and warm opening ceremony. The second and third graders demonstrated through their actions that they are not only explorers of learning but also role models within the school community.

The new semester has begun, and students from grades one to three at Hongkou Campus are ready to set out together and write their own brilliant chapter.

(Written by Nina Kang, Qingjia Yang