This week pupils have been receiving their exam results and going through papers. We would expect nothing less, but the high degree of moral integrity demonstrated when taking the exams is heartening. From those I have spoken to, receiving the results has been a largely positive experience that is focused on improvement, and for every single one of us it is important to remember we can all get better at things if we know what we need to do. Sometimes a small change is required, while other improvements might need a more fundamental change. Either way, it is our duty to ourselves to take responsibility for these changes.

Nowhere is this more obvious than on the river; rowing can be a brutal sport and any fallibility can be horribly exposed. In last year's Durham Regatta this was exemplified by an unusually high number of capsized boats. Fortunately (if my memory is correct) none of the Durham School crews fell in, but several boats tipped their crews into the Wear due to failings of technique or balance. This weekend we hope for better balance for all and plenty of sunshine! The School crews have been working hard throughout the regatta season, making those large and small improvements that we hope will lead to victory at the 2025 edition of Durham Regatta.

f you are able to come and cheer them on this weekend, come and join us at the Durham School marquee. I wish all the competitors the best of luck and encourage to them to show ambition in every race, and kindness to their vanquished opponents.