Our thought for today centred around Muhammad Ali's words, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life like a champion.' I drew parallels with the work ethic and positive attitude to learning which successful students employ as the norm. Making sacrifices now, prioritising work ahead of other activities, investing effort and energy in effective study may feel uncomfortable, but will pay off in the long term. It is no miracle that hard working students enjoy positive academic outcomes!

Our photograph of the week shows Debbie Tonkinson from the Alexander Devine Children's Hospice receiving donations from our students whom she thanked heartily for 'making a difference'. The Sixth Form raised £250 by supporting the hamper packing before Christmas and more than £80 following the Christmas jumper (and suit) wearing extravaganza at the end of last term.