A nervous energy has been spreading across the country as England prepare to take on Colombia for a place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup tonight.

And in our schools, this feeling is replicated in thousands of pupils as, just like the England squad, they steel themselves for a night in the spotlight - at their summer concerts, performances and parents’ evenings.

So, while many of you will be enjoying the game at the pub or at home (both scenarios likely to involve beer), spare a thought for the teachers and parents sat in a school hall, praying for extra time and penalties so they catch just a bit of the match. 

Some schools have preempted the clash in priorities and inner struggle of football fans everywhere, and either moved forward or rescheduled events. 

But not everyone is as lucky. If we’re lucky, football may be coming home…but some teachers, parents and pupils won’t be in time to see it.