LOOKING to the past as well as to the future - that was the theme of the headmaster's speech at the Hereford Cathedral School prize-giving day, writes RICHARD WILSON.

With some evidence to suggest that teaching took place on the city site as far back as the year 1000, Howard Tomlinson reflected upon a thousand years of development.

And he concluded that the founding fathers of Herefordshire education probably had much the same ideals in mind as their modern-day successors.

He listed: "The pursuit of truth, respect for accuracy, exercise of judgement, widening of intellectual experience, transmission of culture and the joy of learning for its own sake."

Mr Tomlinson also spoke at length about the importance of extra-curricular activities to pupil development.

"They are going to become increasingly important in the 'key skills' requirement for university entry," he said, detailing the sports successes of the past year.

He also praised the school's outdoor activities programmes, particularly the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Pupils' cultural horizons had been broadened over the year by a trip to Strasbourg and by a visit from 36 Japanese students, he said.

And a memorable production of the 'Pirates of Penzance' had been one of the highlights of the year.

On the academic front, exam results 'had never been stronger' and almost every graduating student had gained acceptance to university.

"These achievements are a reflection on the ability, aptitude and hard work of the pupils (and) our favourable class sizes and book and other resources," he insisted.

Mr Tomlinson concluded with an emotional 'goodbye' to teacher Dick Rhodes, who is retiring after 34 years. He was described as a man of 'extraordinary talents' and 'inexhaustible energy'.