It can be a daunting and worrying time for some pupils - and just as much so for their parents! Trying to make major decisions about which courses to take, with a long term view of what career paths they may lead to is a difficult and important decision. Luckily, here at Hamilton College we have a wide array of subjects, from the usual English, Maths, Science, Languages and Social Subjects to the more unusual subjects like Engineering Science, Computing Science, Latin, and the ever popular Business Studies. Such a variety of subjects is fabulous for a medium sized school - we're small enough to know pupils individually, but big enough to do this kind of thing. However, that can make the choice even more daunting for some.
My message to pupils last night was the fabulous support and guidance our staff can give to help them make positive choices, based on course content, interest, aptitude and future intentions. There was a real buzz in the dining room and library as everyone - pupils, parents and staff - were striving to get it just right. One thing I found myself encouraging people to consider is having an interesting, broad and varied grouping of subjects. Even for those going into more traditional disciplines, it is often having something which is a bit different, and makes you stand out from the crowd.
We all have options in life, and sometimes those options present us with challenges and difficult decisions.
Thankfully, Proverbs 3:5-6 offers clear advice; 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.'
You never know what is round the corner, and although the decisions we take now are major, often life-changing ones, with knowledge of the guiding hand of God, we needn't worry too much... That's worth remembering.