HIPPY Graduation Season is Here!

Celebrate our young graduates as they prepare to take on "big school"

Onkaparinga and Elizabeth 'HIPPY Graduation', Photo credit - AnglicareSA
Onkaparinga and Elizabeth 'HIPPY Graduation', Photo credit - AnglicareSA

HIPPY graduation season is in full swing, as sites across Australia celebrate their young graduates preparing for big school.

Graduation days hold special significance for both children and their families, showcasing the pride and sense of accomplishment that comes from completing their HIPPY journey.

Just last week, 28 HIPPY families from the Onkaparinga and Elizabeth areas of Adelaide celebrated their graduation ceremony at the Adelaide Zoo. Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth joined the celebration to honor the growth and achievements of the families throughout their HIPPY journey.

Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, celebrates graduation day for Onkaparinga and Elizabeth sites, Photo credit - Anglicare SA
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, celebrates graduation day for Onkaparinga and Elizabeth sites, Photo credit - Anglicare SA

Graduation is a day of pride, happiness, and celebration, as graduates eagerly anticipate their next chapter, with parents and carers thrilled to help usher them into it. Reflecting on their journey, one HIPPY parent shared how their child went from feeling nervous at the start of the program to now being “absolutely ready for school”


He had his interview the other day and he was super excited – he can’t wait to go.


At HIPPY, we recognise that the friendships, confidence, and social skills children develop are just as important as academic growth. Building these social skills, alongside a well-tended love of learning, ensures that HIPPY graduates are fully prepared for the transition to school.

In fact, 90% of parents in a 2020 survey believed their child was more ready for school after participating in HIPPY.


He was a bit isolated [coming into the program] ... but the relationships he built in HIPPY definitely helped him come out of his shell socially.

Shared A HIPPY mum, whose son struggled to make friends in kindergarten.


To all our HIPPY sites, we extend our deepest, most heartfelt thanks and appreciation for making this year’s graduations possible.

It's not just the day itself, but every day and every activity where you've given your time, the gift of learning, and support to our families. These graduation celebrations simply wouldn’t be possible without you.

And of course, to our eager beaver graduates, THE BIGGEST CONGRATULATIONS from everyone at HIPPY!

We couldn’t be prouder and more excited to see what you’ll do next year, and in the years beyond!

HIPPY Tutors with Ian Byrne and Amanda Rishworth, Photo credit - AnglicareSA
HIPPY Tutors with Ian Byrne and Amanda Rishworth, Photo credit - AnglicareSA

To read more about the Onkaparinga and Elizabeth graduations check out the full story on Anglicare SA’s website
Read the story here


HIPPY Graduation tips

We have put together some simple tips to help plan the best graduation!

Add a personal touch

Display children’s artwork and HIPPY activities, or create a slideshow of photos from the program.

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Highlight the family

A small thank-you speech or token of appreciation for families can go a long way!

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Invite a special VIP

Inviting a local leader or special guest adds a sense of celebration and places a spotlight on the importance of early childhood education!

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Make it fun for the kids

Remember that the day is about celebrating the children and HIPPY Families graduating from the program. Try incorporating fun activities, music and themed snacks to keep things light and joyful.

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As graduation season continues through October and November, we’re excited to see how each site will celebrate the wonderful young learners and their families. Congratulations to all the graduates! 🎉


To read more about the Onkaparinga and Elizabeth graduations check out the full story on Anglicare SA’s website
Read the story here

Original story written by Anglicare SA

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