School’s out for summer, which means you can finally put those textbooks away. So what to do now? How about sleep late, watch TV, chill out? When you’ve been working hard and need some time off, these can sound pretty appealing. But if you want to make your summer the greatest ever, it may be time to break out of your comfort zone.

Perhaps you’ve been daydreaming of giving your room a makeover, taking a trip with friends or buying something you’ve had your eye on, but you don’t have the money to make it happen. Taking on the responsibility of paying for something yourself can be liberating, if only you could find a summer job…

Or could you use the holiday to get good at something? Not just your average good – but really good. Imagine the amazement on your friends’ faces when you turn up at the start of the new school year being able to sketch them perfectly or play their favourite tune on guitar.

Ultimately, though, summer gives you the space you need to think about who you are, and where you’re going. New experiences, new feelings and a whole new world of possibilities – used well it can be a stepping stone to greater independence and exciting times ahead. The next chapter of your life is waiting to be written. It’s your time to shine.