THE summer holidays are an ideal opportunity for students to boost their academic prospects, says the headteacher of one Ascot school.

While most youngsters will be busy relaxing and recharging their batteries over the summer break, many will be using the time to brush up their skills in a particular academic area, taking part in Duke of Edinburgh activities or taking up a new hobby.

LVS Ascot Principal Christine Cunniffe said: "If you are not feeling stimulated during the long summer break, perhaps with parents working and friends away, there are a number of things you can do – academic or non-academic – that will stand you in good stead at school and beyond.

"It might not seem an exciting prospect picking up your maths book but it would be a great job done to take some time looking over difficult topics so you hit the ground running in September. YouTube is a great resource to help explain difficult topics and working at your own pace in a quiet environment can be very productive.

"Come September when you are feeling more comfortable and familiar with the subject matter than your peers might be, you will be really pleased you took some time to prepare!"

Ms Cunniffe advises those who want to spend their summer outside to try picking up a new sport, reading outdoors or going for a hike with friends.

She said: "“Developing skills and interests doesn't have to be expensive. Walking or hiking, swimming, learning a language, reading, and writing short stories is a good way of extending yourself and keeping yourself occupied over the holidays.

"It's easy to lay in bed too long or play computer games but my advice is to treat the summer days as you would school days – a little of everything goes a long way in keeping yourself occupied, learning new skills and preparing yourself for the next academic year. It should not then be too difficult when the alarm clock sound in the first week of September, and can help to relieve any anxiety about returning to school for the next academic year."