Peter Alexander is Australia’s leading sleepwear designer. In 1987, he founded the brand Peter Alexander, selling designer lines of underwear and pyjamas, and it has since grown into an international company. Peter was awarded Australian Designer of the Year in 1992. He is a well-known supporter of animal rights and welfare.

I know school is hard, but your results at school, your so-called ‘mark’ is NOT as important in life as you think, or in any way your mark in life.

Who you are at school does not dictate who you are going to be after school. I know that remedial classes are embarrassing, I know having a stutter is hard and I know not being good at sport sucks. But again I want to say, I promise you that just because you’re labelled a D student and don’t fit in, this does not mean you’re not going to be happy and successful in life.

I remember everyone around me was getting interested in the opposite sex, me not so much, I knew I liked boys but was so ashamed and confused. I am happy to tell you by the time you are just 10 years older, times will have changed and being gay, although still not a picnic while at school, is a lot more accepted and even celebrated. I know you get teased but so do most kids about all sorts of things. Kids will always find something to pick on as they need to help their own self-esteem; you just need one great friend.

Appreciate support at home to get through those school years. I promise you by 18 you are happy and have heaps of great friends. You will find your way, it just took a little longer than planned. While you are not on everyone’s party list at school, trust me when I say your name becomes a loved household brand and you’re invited to more things that you care to go to.