Now several weeks into his time at Blue Valley School, Mr Bambuckle sipped his Himalayan tea and smiled. Listening to Carrot’s story was a strong reminder of why he went into teaching in the first place. The changes he felt in the classroom were pulling him in like a magnet. He had not met a more fascinating group of students.

Carrot stared quietly at his classmates, having taken the courageous step of sharing his story. He was yet another example of a student under the spell of their new teacher. Ever since Mr Bambuckle’s arrival, the walls built up by fear of failure were crumbling on a daily basis in room 12B.

Victoria Goldenhorn had a tear in her eye. ‘That was beautiful, Carrot.’

‘You’re beautiful, Victoria,’ said Damon.

‘I remember that race like it was last week,’ said Vinnie, playing with one of her curls.

‘It was last week,’ said Ren.

‘You made me out to be such a bad guy,’ complained Vex. Although the hair on top of his head was growing back, he was still embarrassed by the whole affair. ‘Why doesn’t anybody believe me when I say it was all my dad’s idea. He’s the one who wanted to fix the race so I won. As if he’d ever actually give away a car!’

‘Truth be told,’ said Mr Bambuckle, ‘I do believe you, Vex. I also believe there is much good in you, just waiting to come out.’

At that exact moment, Vex Vron was on the precipice of finally allowing his own emotional walls to be smashed by the sledgehammer of warmth and kindness that was Mr Bambuckle. The last thread of his ugly attitude – one that had been ingrained long ago by his father – was all that stopped him doing so. He could only manage a single word. ‘Whatever.’

Realising Vex was deep in thought, and wanting to buy him some time, Mr Bambuckle winked at Damon Dunst, who he could tell was itching to share something.

‘I’ve written a guide,’ said Damon.

‘A most wonderful initiative,’ said Mr Bambuckle.

‘It’s very personal and honest,’ said Damon. ‘I’ve left nothing out.’

The teacher signalled for Damon to share. ‘The best things in life come from a special place within.’ He looked at Vex and added, ‘We all have a special place within.’

Damon stood up from his desk and walked to the front of the classroom. He pulled a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket and looked around the room. With his curly hair and broad smile, Damon Dunst was the sort of boy who only ever allowed himself to be guided by love.

He took a deep breath and gazed longingly at Victoria Goldenhorn.