On Thursday morning, schools across Da Nang held ceremonies to welcome the 2019 - 2020 new school year with the excitement of thousands of pupils and students. As for Year 1 pupils, in particular, the first day of school is really special, taking them through a roller coaster of emotions, ranging from joy, excitement, happiness to anxiety, even fear. They, in fact, look like ‘a fish out of water’ during these first moments.

Here are some photos, taken by our reporters, which reflect the joyful atmosphere of the ceremonies at some primary schools.

Year 1 pupils eagerly attended the opening ceremony for the new school year at their schools. These first graders must get used to the totally new learning environment.

A first grader being comforted by her mother to remove her fear for a new learning place

Some showing their smiley faces during the new academic year welcoming ceremony whislst others still hold feelings of anxiety

Many parents taking photos of their loved children to capture their once-in-a-lifetime special moments

Parents still worry about whether or not their kids can adapt themselves to the new learning environment with stricter regulations than in pre-schools.

First graders being warmly welcomed by teachers and older schoolmates

What lovely faces!

A boy is seen yawning drowsily after having woken up so early in preparation for the school-year opening ceremony

Now, let’s entering the new school year.

First graders proactively making friends with one another

Little pupils singing the national anthem in a solemn atmosphere

The first day of school, usually filled with jitters, excitement, and anticipation of the unknown, would remain deep in kids’ minds.