A video showing a graduating school captain of Ravenswood School for Girls delivering her end of year speech has gone viral over the Internet, fetching large number of views. Outgoing student Sarah Haynes, 18, delivered the speech in front of parents, students and staff on Wednesday and used it to throw light on the aspects of the school that have let her down.

According to Haynes, the school is too financially motivated and more concerned about image building, even at the expense of the students. For a school that charges $30,000 a year, the welfare of the students doesn’t find place among its top priorities.

“I don’t know how to run a school but it seems to me that today’s schools are being run more and more like businesses where everything becomes financially motivated, where more value is placed on those who provide good publicity or financial benefits,” she said. “Perhaps this has become a necessary evil in today’s society but either way, I would love to see Ravo work towards something better where each member of the school feels valued equally, as they should be.”

The school, according to her, tries hard to project an image of perfection and has become more a business establishment than an educational institution.

She admitted that her sister had to leave school during the year, but the circumstances that led to her departure was not disclosed. She also admitted not being perfect but noted that imperfections are not to be ashamed of, but to learn from. The school has apparently been undermining its mistakes to keep its superficial image intact.

During the 13-minute speech, Haynes alleged that the staff would censor her speech during her days as the school captain. Thus, for the end of the year speech, she had made two versions, one which could be sent to the censors and the other that she would actually use.

Haynes courage has been received well on social media with people praising her for her honesty and courage.

“Wow - you are a brave, smart and insightful young lady who is and will, no doubt, continue to 'be somebody,'” one of the users commented on YouTube.

Ravenswood School Council Chair, Mark Webb, wrote a formal letter to the parents and staff with a brief clarification on the grievances expressed in the speech.

“This is unfortunate because it detracts from the Year 12 celebrations, but it is seemingly unavoidable,” he wrote. “As this relates to a matter before the Courts, it is not possible for us to comment on the specifics other than to say this relates to a disagreement about disciplinary action taken against a number of students following an incident of alleged bullying.”

(Credit: Youtube/Ravo Captain)

Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.

RELATED STORIES