We look forward to welcoming many of these, our recent leavers, back next Thursday at Speech Day to accept well-earned recognition for contributions to their subject specialisms and the wider life of our school community. And while we delight in the new adventures ahead of 'Year 14', Jane Marshall (highest number of hits on YouTube for her concise and informative video on writing a compelling personal statement) has already spoken to Year 12 on the merits of undergraduate study. Our current Year 13s are travelling the length and breadth of the land to visit universities on their open days, returning to school full of enthusiasm for both the courses they have discovered and the universities offering them. The realisation that in less than a year, they too will be packing the car with duvets, pots, pans and potato peelers has only increased their desire to succeed in their current studies.

The ongoing debate about too many people staying in education will, no doubt, roll on; but there is no real evidence of any reduction in demand for graduates and highly skilled individuals. UCAS have reported a rise in university applications this year with almost 4,000 more 18 year olds living in England opting for university. We wish those from the Claires Court Sixth Form every success and happiness as they move on.

And our competent, work ready leavers, applying for those competitive apprenticeships are also wished the very best as they begin their exciting and challenging roles. University is not for everyone; the best quality vocational education is also vital, including apprenticeships and employment based training where active learners increase their skill set and contribute to the economy.

Wherever our former students go we know they are well prepared, not just academically, but just as importantly, they are resilient, confident young men and women of excellent character ready to make their mark in society.