The Hallifordian - 2016-2017

4 very happy about. As it turns out, the opposition was also happy with my willingness to participate, as they bowled me out almost instantly in nearly every match. However, sometimes you just have to throw yourself in to know what you don’t want to do – a valuable lesson in life-skills! Taking part in most things has enabled me to discover what I love, and what I don’t. To quote the physicist Enrico Firmi: “ There are two possible outcomes: if the result con- firms the hypothesis, then you’ve made a measure- ment. If the result is contrary to the hypothesis, then you’ve made a discovery. ” My playing cricket sim- ply helped me to realise how much I hated cricket. On the other hand, I thought that I would hate partic- ipating in the Year 8 Shakespeare Festival. Instead, I ended up discovering one of my true passions – act- ing! And as a result I will be striving for a career in the theatre once I have finished at Halliford School. Our motto: Via Firma Ad Firmiora , “a firm path to firmer things” is a fine one. But where does your path lead to? Some of you may already have your futures planned out, others simply won’t have a clue. And that’s fine. Five years ago I didn’t think that acting would be what was motivating me now, and who knows if it still will be in five years’ time? However, Halliford School has supplied me with this firm path, therefore I will follow it. If firmer paths arise later in my life then I may decide to fol- low them. You may not be able to see your path yet. However, when the time comes and the way becomes clear keep going, seize the moment and see where it leads to. I’ll leave you with a quotation that has in- spired me: “ So many of us choose our path based on fear disguised as practicality. What we really want seems impossible so we never dare to reach for it. You could fail at doing something you hate, so you might as well take a chance at doing something you love. ” Thank you for everything. Max McArdle: Deputy Head Prefect It’s been a privilege to work alongside Tom Snape this year. He’s a fine example of what a true Hallifordian should be: honest, reliable and hard- working. Furthermore, he’s also my friend. I never imagined for a moment in Year 7 that one day I’d be the Deputy Head Prefect at Hal- liford School. All that seemed like the impossible dream when I first arrived here. And yet, the time has flown by. I can look back at some very happy memories, especially all those rugby matches! Tom is right about taking part in school activities. Try everything! You never know what new adventures will befall you. In the final analysis it is the teach- ers who really make this school the unique, special place it is. They really go the extra mile to help and encourage you. As I leave Halliford School I shall look for- ward to university life and the opportunities and challenges it will bring. Yet, I will always be proud to call myself a true Hallifordian.