PUPILS celebrating a year of achievements at Kirkbie Kendal School were told by their head teacher to go out into the world with confidence and seize their chances.

Head teacher David Smart told staff, parents and pupils that summer's successful exam results had been a matter of "talent, effort and teamwork" and that individual achievement was not just about exam grades but also about making a contribution through charity work and fund-raising.

Hands-on technology experience for prospective first year students and collaborative projects with local business, such as the sixth form's "Urban Perspective" Fashion Show, had helped the school keep pace with change.

Speaking at the school's prize-giving night, Mr Smart praised the sport, drama and music departments for their inclusive approach.

He said sport for all meant "being serious about achievement yet preserving the fun."

Reaching out beyond the four walls of the classroom was an important aspect of Kirkbie Kendal's education.

"We encourage pupils to learn about the world and develop as individuals," he said, giving examples of field trips and exchanges as far afield as Morocco and as close to home as Grasmere.

Of the departing members of staff thanked for their professionalism and energy, Geoff Causey, maths teacher at the school since 1968, was singled out for special praise.

Mr Smart referred to him as "an outstanding servant of the school who cares passionately about teaching."

Concluding his presentation, Mr Smart reminded his audience that he was a "head of a school not a curator of a museum," and added that in a world of mobile phones and computers, pupils had to be prepared to adapt to the changing world and be confident.

"If you do what you always did, you only have what you always had," he said.