I was privileged last week to attend chapel hosted by the matrics, for the matrics.

Over the past five years this group has become familiar with the ritual in chapel, and they displayed a genuine appreciation for the order of service. The readings, prayers and hymns all contributed to a powerful and inspirational message.

The crux of the message was aligned to the celebration of Youth Day. Parts of the service were interactive, and I was surprised by the candid and meaningful responses from the girls about their experience of being 17 and 18 years old in the current context. What made the greatest impact on me, and the other teachers in attendance, was the humility they expressed about their place in the world.

We often talk of the youth driving change for tomorrow, but they are the voice of today. They deserve our encouragement and support as they begin to influence society.

Nevertheless, they also remind us daily that they are in their adolescent years with a tendency to want to test boundaries and question structures and convention. This dichotomy is what keeps the teachers and me so interested and invested in these young people that we teach and guide.

Half-term now offers our community a welcome respite in the middle of winter. Examinations are over and the girls have a week to rest and enjoy some recreation.