This year we seem to have a particularly short Spring Term and we are no sooner settling into the rhythm of 2007 (Happy New Year!) than another half term break beckons. Many students have endured a spell of examinations, having revised during the Christmas holiday, and they will deserve a well earned rest when February 9th arrives. Others,  however, are needing a hefty dose of encouragement to observe recent resolutions to work harder and apply themselves more effectively. Please help me and the staff to achieve the very best for your sons and daughters, whatever their age, by maintaining an avid interest in their school life and work. I am anything but complacent about our standards. Along with heads of departments and the school’s management team I have been carrying out work trawls and sampling students’ work. Whilst we have seen spectacular and outstanding examples there have also been some less satisfactory exercise books and folders with poor presentation, lack of pride and insufficient effort. As a high achieving grammar school we expect every student to produce their best efforts at all times and I would urge you to echo this message by also checking some homeworks and diaries. This not only reinforces good habits but also helps with organisation. Look too for the staff comments and heap on the praise where it is due. Students can be very modest and their self-esteem and confidence can really benefit from positives gleaned at home as well as school. Please quote this letter if you need permission to delve into the mysteries that lurk deep within school bags!