Saint Mary's Catholic Voluntary Academy in Glossop was delighted to welcome Michael Copestake, the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, into school to speak to Years 5 and 6. 

Mr Copestake explained his job to the children and gave a brief history of the High Sheriff’s role, which includes reading the proclamation of the accession of the new Sovereign.

Ben in Year 5 was interested to hear about the history of how Sheriffs came to be, when their role was to “collect the taxes for the King.” 

The Sheriff then went on to talk about aspirations and careers. He shared the stories of inspirational people from across Derbyshire and the varying jobs and careers they have. 

He then asked them to consider what kind of jobs there will be in the future and what jobs they would like to be able to do. Phoebe and Heidi remembered hearing that they could become “entrepreneurs or engineers” and enjoyed learning that “robots do the work” in the “water factories in Buxton”. 

Sarah Rudd, from the Gladstone Street school, said: "The visit by the High Sheriff was inspirational for many pupils and further embedded the character traits that the school focuses on each day, such as resilience and independence.

"Through the High Sheriff exposing the pupils to the future of industry and the possibilities available to them, this should motivate the pupils further to work hard at school and achieve their potential." 

The talk finished with the important message for the children that they can be whoever they want to be.

Mr Copestake took the time to answer their many questions, which were often about the ceremonial sword and robes.

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