That means, among other things, having the best facilities possible and being able to offer students new opportunities on a continuing basis.

It is little wonder then that Sutton's Quarrydale School, which has been gaining a growing reputation over recent times, is a cock-a-hoop that its bid to become a specialist centre for science and mathematics has been successful.

The idea of working in partnership with private sector sponsors has it critics in some quarters, of course. But surely any initiative that helps bridge the gap between school and work has to be in the interests of everyone - particularly the youngsters, as tomorrow's workforce, and the local business community.

One of the key mantras of the Labour Government from day one has been 'Education, education, education.' However, as the last 10 years have shown, simply throwing loads of extra money at something does not automatically bring about improvements.

There are other important factors.

As has been pointed out in the case of Quarrydale, the key to making a real difference is about raising aspirations.

What's on the agenda now is the opportunity to do just that, hopefully with lasting benefits for the whole Ashfield community.

New year; new era in education.

Sounds like the makings of a win-win situation all round.