Adelaide schoolboy Trent Reeves has time of his life on stage with principal Chris Brandwood

A very special performance at a school graduation involving a student and his principal has won the hearts of the school community. We think it will win yours too.

Graduation ceremonies evoke emotions at the best of times but when schoolboy Trent Reeves took to the stage to perform with his school principal, sentiment was intensified.

The Year 12 student who has autism hasn’t let his disability hold him back from doing what he loves most – singing and performing.

This year’s winner of Ocean View College’s performing arts award didn’t hesitate when principal Chris Brandwood suggested they collaborate at the end-of-year event to perform Green Day’s Good Riddance (Time of Your Life).

“He used to be in a band in the ‘80s called Be Brave, so it was a great opportunity to perform alongside him,” the 18-year-old said.

“I wasn’t nervous because I love performing … I play piano and act and love to dance.

“I love the energy of performing and I like to make people happy.”

Trent is doing a DJ course at Urban Movement Entertainment, called himself “DJ Spectrum”.

While he hasn’t any firm plans on life beyond school, he does know he wants to have an impact on others.

“I'd like to work with people, making them happy,” he said.

“​I am currently doing work experience every Monday and Friday at Bedford learning cafe skills and customer service.”

Trent sadly lost his mum during the year but said he knew she would be “super proud” of him, describing her along with his dad and big sister as his heroes.

Trent encouraged people to look beyond a person’s disability or differences.

“​People need to understand that everyone has their own characteristics, and they are unique with their own talents,” he said.

Mr Brandwood, a former music teacher, said he “jumped” at the chance to perform with Trent.

“I hope that when people watch the video, they see a kind and caring young man with a beautiful voice, singing a sentimental farewell to his peers at the conclusion of a 13-year school journey … seeing young people such as Trent experience such a sense of inclusion and belonging is extremely rewarding,” he said.