SCHOOL leavers were advised to tackle what seemed impossible difficulties head-on in future to emerge as better people.

Barry Burke, headteacher of Rhyddings High School, Oswaldtwistle, was praising the achievements of students during his speech at a leavers' presentation.

He said that as well as working towards their individual success they had contributed to the learning organisation as a whole.

He also praised parents and teachers who he said had provided students with a considerable support during their studies.

The students' achievements had improved the school's performance in the league tables, as well as bringing a range of success from sports to arts, and from academic pursuits to community involvement.

Mr Burke said: "Each of you faces an uncertain future.

"Sometimes your progress will be smooth and at other times you will encounter problems which appear impossible to solve.

"It is at these times you need to use the qualities that make you a Rhyddings person.

"Don't shy away from difficulties. Turn them into experiences from which you learn and emerge as a better person.

"Remember that as an individual, with individual talents, you have a responsibility to identify, improve and perfect those talents.

"Don't stop learning, because it is through learning that you'll improve your enjoyment of life."

Mr Burke welcomed Steve Colling, former deputy headteacher at Rhyddings, as guest of honour.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.