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October 8th

Yesterday evening, I returned from the HMC annual conference in Liverpool, having spent two days with fellow heads discussing a range of current educational issues and hearing presentations on such topics as qualifications, assessment and leadership. It was an encouraging and at times inspirational meeting that demonstrated the vitality and optimism of the independent sector.

A session on university admissions focused on the invaluable contribution of schools such as College to the "knowledge economy": our pupils who go on to take rigorous courses at leading universities then apply their skills and expertise in the global workplace, making a distinct mark on their communities. One of the highlights of the conference was a service at the Liverpool Cathedral, during which the Right Reverend Christopher Herbert, former Bishop of St Albans, challenged us as heads to be "catalysts of excellence"—a worthy aim, indeed.