The end of year formal is always a great celebration of 13 years of schooling, but this year the year 12 students have a bit extra reason to party.
Due to the changing COVID-19 restrictions, school formals were on, then they were off, then they were back on again with no dancing but thankfully restrictions lifted in time for the students to have a boogie.
Irrawang High School students did just that at Merewether Surfhouse last night, with the graduating students all smiles and dressed up in their finest clothing for the special occasion.
Student Isabela Kennedy said after a tough year, it was wonderful to come together one final time as a year group.
"After everything that happened, I think we all wanted a formal," she said. "We were all really tired and exhausted."
"It's an amazing feeling seeing everyone like this," fellow graduate Brianna Knight said.
"We got used to seeing everyone on a screen," Nakittah Leard added.
Year 12 teacher Kate Connor described the cohort of students as the "most resilient year of graduates".
"They've just taken every challenge in their stride," Ms Connor said.
"This is a lovely way to celebrate 13 years of schooling."
Newcastle Grammar School held their formal on Saturday night in Bollywood style in the midst of Diwali.
Students met at Newcastle Beach for photos prior to the formal at Noah's and were surprised by Bollywood Dancers and drummers to lead the way.
Local residents even joined in the fun, dancing and clapping to the music from their balconies as the procession of Year 12 students made their way to the venue.
Inside the venue, COVID-19 restrictions were adhered to in a creative way with the Dohl drummers and Bollywood Sensations teaching the students the Bollywood moves at their tables.
The 20 best dancers won a spot on the dance floor for a Bollywood dance off to complete the night.
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