MELBOURNE, October 2026 — More than 250 guests marked the end of school for Year 12 students at the Alphington Grammar dinner dance. The event was held at Leonda by The Yarra in Hawthorn on Thursday 15 October 2026.

School captains James Fokianos and Isabella George addressed the room. Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou and Michael Karamitos, chair of the School Council, also spoke.

The Alphington Grammar dinner dance celebrated personal growth with welcome drinks and canapés, a multi-course sit-down dinner, speeches and a video presentation, the school said.

Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou at the lectern
Principal Dr Vivianne Nikou at Leonda by The Yarra, Hawthorn, on Thursday 15 October 2026. Photo: Kostas Deves

Addressing the students, Dr Nikou said “central to leading an authentic life is a deep-seated commitment to values such as humility, honesty, integrity and living a life of purpose – to live in a way that leaves something worth inheriting for those who come after you.”

“What a wonderful message for our young people to leave us with,” Karamitos said. “They are masters of their own fate, their character and discipline will help shape the people they become.”

Alphington Grammar dinner dance valedictorian

Students chose Archer Claffey as valedictorian of the year, recognising his personal qualities, the school said.

Claffey spoke about the Hellenic values and close family community at the school. That community welcomed him when he arrived three years ago.

Chair of School Council Michael Karamitos speaking at the lectern
Chair of School Council Michael Karamitos at Leonda by The Yarra, Hawthorn, on Thursday 15 October 2026. Photo: Kostas Deves

He also thanked his parents and grandparents for the chance to attend the school. He said teachers there care deeply for their students and give up much of their own time to help them succeed.

At the same time, Claffey said, teachers balance that work by nurturing students’ wellbeing and mental health during challenging times.

The dinner follows the school’s graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026 at the Capitol Theatre, which Greek City Times reported on 11 October.

Music and exams ahead

School captain speaking during the School Captain's Address
School Captain’s Address at Leonda by The Yarra, Hawthorn, on Thursday 15 October 2026. Photo: Kostas Deves

After the formalities, speeches and video presentation, guests danced to both English and Greek music well into the night.

Year 12 students now turn to their written exams. The school said it wished all of them the very best.

Photo gallery of the evening

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All photos are copyrighted by Kostas Deves