“Yuletide Unburdening by Stewart Stafford

Fading embers of the final Christmas test,
No more the frantic angst of dawn,
Now it is poised last-minute checks,
And then the flushing of responsibility.

A fortnight of relaxation and merriment,
Awaits the temporarily-exonerated inmate,
Though it means entering the bruising storm,
Bartered freedom a passenger and guide home.

Cross the draughty, great hall, and finish line,
Whispered submission of completed exam papers,
And the old year's prescribed work is done,
Then outside, leaving others to their stress.”