The IB graduation ceremony in Louisenlund is actually a fixed ritual in the open air - with a view of the Schlei, surrounded by nature and a summer atmosphere. But this year, the weather threw a spanner in the works: rain and wind forced the ceremony to be held indoors. However, this did not detract from the atmosphere - on the contrary: with festive music and proud looks, the mood was warm, relaxed and festive. The pride in what they had achieved, the moving speeches and the strong cohesion of the Louisenlund school community made the day an unforgettable moment in the lives of the graduates of the IB class of 2025.

IB Director Petra Hau began her speech with a heartfelt thank you and addressed the graduates of the class of 2025 in particular. After two intensive years in the Diploma Program and 425 written exams, this day marked a significant turning point for her.

The central theme of her speech: "Change is the only constant." In a world that is changing rapidly - due to technological developments, global challenges and social upheaval - values such as kindness, respect, courage, integrity and humility are more important than ever. They are the "roots and wings" - they provide support and at the same time enable further development.

Petra Hau emphasized that it is not just knowledge that counts, but also an attitude of continuous learning, resilience and human leadership qualities. True success is not just about performance, but also about personal fulfillment, connecting with others and striving for a meaningful life.

She recalls challenges the class has overcome in the past - from disciplinary learning in MYP5 to self-organized exam preparation - and highlights the students' personal development: from youthful restlessness to maturity and responsibility.

At the end, she gives the graduates the following advice: "Strive for a fulfilling life, not just titles, be ambitious but also kind, stay curious and open to the unknown and use your values as a compass - they will guide you in uncertainty."

As part of the IB graduation ceremony in Louisenlund, two particularly outstanding students were traditionally honored: the Valedictorian and the Salutatorian. The Valedictorian is the best student of the year - the person with the highest overall academic performance in the IB program. The Valedictorian usually gives the graduation speech on behalf of the entire class at the graduation ceremony.

The Salutatorian is the runner-up of the class, who speaks on behalf of the community, takes the opening words of the ceremony. This year, this honor was bestowed upon Emilia Heeren (Valedictorian) and Katja Marie Aeberhard (Salutatorian). Katja Marie thanked the IB faculty and parents for their support. To her fellow graduates, she said that they had all learned many skills at Louisenlund to achieve extraordinary things.

Foundation Director Dr. Peter Rösner praised the achievements of the graduates of the IB class of 2025, who successfully mastered a challenging educational path with examinations, essays and commitment.

Peter Rösner particularly emphasized the idea of wisdom. Wisdom - understood not as pure knowledge, but as a combination of experience, compassion and responsibility. "Wisdom is lively, playful and creative - an attitude that should accompany young people on their future path."

He encouraged the young people to actively shape their future with curiosity and self-confidence. "Take responsibility in politics and society - in the fight for freedom, justice and democracy." They should also serve society consciously and voluntarily, as is anchored in Louisenlund's foundation mission.

Patricia Frorath, mother of a graduate and long-standing parent representative, thanked the parents for their trust and looked back on three enriching years of her work. She emphasized Louisenlund's special role - a school that leaves conventions behind and gives pupils space to develop their potential and get to know themselves. In a vivid comparison, she described the graduates as "colorful, running fish" who have grown up in Louisenlund and are now ready to enter the world.

Looking to the future, she gave the graduates personal advice: stay curious, cultivate friendships, take your time, act respectfully and compassionately, stay true to yourself and accept help as well as give it.

At the end of the ceremony, things got loud and lively: With a collective toss into the air, the IB graduates let their hats fly - a traditional and emotional highlight of the celebration, which then concluded in the Herzögliche Wohnung with the traditional gherkin punch and in the Kutterschuppen with a buffet, music and dancing until the early hours of the morning.