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. 

Nicole’s new school have scheduled a parent’s induction evening for tonight at 7pm. I’ve just text her dad to let him know. #EngCol

— Jayne Sharp (@Jaynesharp) July 3, 2018

A penny for the thoughts of all parents attending school open evenings/proms/concerts tonight when they might just prefer to be watching #ENGCOL

— Steve Silk 🚴🏼 (@Greatnorthroad2) July 3, 2018

If any of my kids have any school projects around the topic of 'sacrifice'. They can re tell the story of their dad going to @johntaylorhigh open evening on Tuesday 7pm. #ENGCOL

— Ricky Woolley (@rickywoolley86) June 30, 2018

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

Manor School have brought their new starters meeting forward an hour in dedication to the cause!! Impressive 😂 #betterbebrief #ENGCOL

— Becky Philpott (@becky_just_me) July 3, 2018

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.