IT’S often said that today’s secondary pupils face a wider range of exams than previous generations.

As the jobs market remains difficult for school leavers and graduates, pressure on teenagers to perform academically is immense.

At the same time it’s not easy for many of them to cope with the everyday hurly burly in today’s large, busy high schools.

And that’s where this category comes into its own. We are not just looking for the brainiest pupil in East Lancashire (although academic excellence has a part to play) but for those who go the extra mile to achieve in all sorts of areas.

It might be that he or she has taken an important role in helping to make life run more smoothly and enjoyably for others, either in the school or the community it serves.

Organising school events or sports, arts or social activities could all be relevant as could overcoming personal adversity or problems.

In short, the judges will be looking for someone who has shown responsibility beyond their years and leadership qualities which mean they have set a positive example to their peers.

Their efforts are likely to have helped to ensure that those around them will go on to fondly remember their school days as amongst the best of their life.