organisational problems threatened to spoil events.

The academy's inaugural graduation ceremony nearly became a victim of its own success when dozens of extra guests turned up without tickets -- only to discover there wasn't enough room in the college gym.

There were angry scenes as organisers shut the doors until all the students were seated, and then allowed the remaining people to fill the spare seats.

The ceremony started an hour late, with music and rapturous applause from the audience for the 200 graduates who had completed the first year at the new facility.

Guests included Premier Pamela Gordon, Education Minister Tim Smith, Opposition Leader Jennifer Smith and invited speaker Alma Foggo York, a Bermudian who is now vice-president of student services at Atlanta Union College in the US.

Principal Ernest Payette said it was the largest single graduation from a single school in the history of Bermuda.

"You are unique and special, you are in the annals of the educational history of Bermuda,'' he said. "The first step is often the most difficult. Our success will be measured in terms of your success.'' He urged students to take all opportunities offered to them and to give 100 percent in everything they did.

"Never settle for anything less than the `Our success will be measured in terms of your success.' -- Principal Ernest Payette best you can do.'' And congratulations were extended to parents, guardians, teachers and relatives, who all contributed in getting students through the year.

Dr. York, who was born and bred in Bermuda, told the graduates they were pioneers of education on the Island.

She said it was the most wonderful experience of her life to be invited to the college as guest speaker.

"I was honoured to be invited. This is an historic occasion for both graduates and myself,'' she said.

"It takes blood, sweat and tears, but here you are today graduating, the first class -- you are first class.'' She urged the students to take positive steps forward and make a difference in their homes, schools and communities.

"I salute you and urge you to go on to greater things -- go on.'' Her speech prompted cheers and a standing ovation from the audience, in contrast to scenes earlier as stewards struggled to cope with the extra numbers that arrived at the hall.

Many of those shut outside the gym for a time had tickets. Others who did not but wanted to share in their relatives' success. One lady said she had received one ticket but wanted to bring other family members, but couldn't.

"This place is just not big enough,'' she said. "We just wanted it to be a happy occasion.'' Stewards, trying to cope with the extra people, said people had turned up without tickets and they had to keep them outside until everyone else was seated, and it became evident how many spare seats there were.

The award-winning CedarBridge Gospel Choir performed and there was music from the CedarBridge Band.

The valedictory address came from Miss Sandy Pacheco, who achieved the highest grade point average in her year.

She said it was with extreme pride and relief that she gave the first valedictory speech at CedarBridge.

Recalling her first days at the school, she said there were times when everyone seemed to turn against the school and no-one wanted to give it a chance.

"Now, one school year has gone by and CedarBridge has proven itself -- together we can do it! Everyone needed a little time to adjust to the very big changes -- and just look at us now, the first graduates.'' She complimented Government and Education officials who had the foresight and courage to "just do it''.

"I would like to congratulate my fellow graduates on a job well done,'' she said. "I would like to say thank you to the administration, teachers and staff.

"I would also like to say thank you to our parents. Without you, none of this would have been possible.'' Editorial: Page 4