PUPILS at Clarendon Academy were told to always “be the best” they can be during an inspirational talk by General Sir Mike Jackson on Tuesday as part of the school’s motivational programme.

Around 80 Year 7 and 8 pupils had the privilege of meeting Sir Michael, after he spoke to them about the vital importance of a good education, to live their lives to the full and to set their ambitions high.

Sir Michael is a retired British Army officer and one of its most high-profile generals since the Second World War. He later held the position of the Chief of the General Staff – the highest post in the Army.

Mike Griffiths, Key Stage 3 and 4 Co-ordinator for English and ‘Understanding Our World’, said “We’re deeply appreciative of the General’s attendance and his willingness to share his knowledge and experience with our younger students. I’m certain they will benefit greatly from his wisdom.”

The event, which is part of the school’s aim to raise the career aspirations of all its students, gave pupils a chance to ask questions about Sir Michael’s army life, world affairs and leadership values.

Year 7 Craig Williams said after the talk: “I found it was a very inspirational event. General Sir Mike Jackson was very full of interesting stories and he shared his knowledge of the world with us.”

Another pupil Daniel Chew, Year 8, said: “He was really motivating and it was great meeting him. I’m thinking of joining the army and he’s made me want to explore it further.”

The talk was arranged by the charity Speakers for Schools (www.speakers4schools.org), an organization originally set up by the BBC’s Robert Peston, that helps UK state secondary schools and colleges access talks from eminent figures, free of charge. 

 Mark Stenton, Principal of Clarendon Academy, said: “The school was honoured to have such a prestigious visitor as General Sir Mike Jackson who was inspiring for the children - and indeed for all of us - in his messaging about leadership and resilience.”