performing under pressure
I recently spoke to pupils in assembly about performing under pressure. It is a theme that resonates strongly with young people, and I want to share with families some of the ideas we explored. These lessons shape how we work, study, lead and live.
Life is inherently competitive. Whether applying for university, auditioning for a role, playing in a match or presenting an idea, we all face moments where expectations rise and performance matters. At Rossall we encourage pupils not to fear these moments, but to prepare for them, to embrace them and to learn from them. It is not enough simply to take part. We should strive to win, not because winning defines us, but because the pursuit of excellence builds habits that last for life.
What It Takes to Win
Winning is built on consistency and intention. It comes from diligence, purposeful practice and a disciplined commitment to improve. Those who excel are not driven by luck or talent alone. They reflect, refine and repeat. They seek feedback, address weaknesses and approach challenge with determination. Excellence is a habit.
But equally important is the manner in which we compete. Winning with dignity and humility is a mark of character. Losing with grace and integrity is too. Competition should build us, not diminish others. At Rossall we place great value on sportsmanship, kindness and respect. The result matters, but the way we achieve it matters more.
Performing Under Pressure
My time spent with Dr Ceri Evans, who has coached elite performers and world champion teams including the All Blacks, the England football team and Arsenal FC, has had a profound impact on how I think about performance. His insights shaped much of what I shared with the pupils.
Evans reminds us that pressure is not a sign of weakness. It is a natural response to moments that matter. The crucial question is not whether we feel pressure, but how we respond to it. His Red–Blue mind model offers a clear and practical framework. The 'Red' mind is emotional, reactive and scattered. The 'Blue' mind is calm, focused and intentional. Under pressure we often slide towards Red. The task is to recognise this and deliberately return to Blue.
Evans teaches a powerful three step approach:
Step Back: Create a moment of awareness. Breathe. Pause. Notice what is happening rather than being consumed by it.
Step Up: Reconnect with your purpose. Why are you here? What do you want to do well in this moment?
Step In: Engage fully. Commit to the task with clarity and control.
This approach helps performers in every domain. It helps a footballer in a sudden death penalty shoot out, a musician before an important grading exam, an actor before they step onto stage or a pupil speaking in front of peers. It teaches composure, courage and self control.
The Value of the Comfort Zone (and Leaving It)
Growth resides just beyond the comfort zone. When pupils choose tasks that stretch them, they discover abilities they did not know they had. Whether stepping onto a stage, entering a competition or taking on a leadership role, these moments develop resilience and confidence. They help pupils understand that fear is natural but not final.
Turning Principles into Practice
For our pupils, these ideas translate into simple habits:
Prepare deliberately and consistently.
Use pressure positively by stepping back, stepping up and stepping in.
Practise humility in victory and dignity in defeat.
Seek feedback and refinement rather than avoiding challenge.
Compete bravely and respectfully.
Support others. Great students elevate one another.
A Final Word
Striving to win is a noble pursuit when it is grounded in effort, courage and character. Performing under pressure is a skill that improves with practice. At Rossall we want our pupils to face challenge with composure, to carry themselves with dignity, and to pursue excellence not only for themselves but for the good of this fantastic community, that we all all believe so strongly in.
Andrew McBride, Headmaster
