I WAS disappointed that your leader comment did not question the assumption that headteachers of schools in challenging circumstances are weak or underperforming.
In my local authority there are always going to be schools facing challenging circumstances because there is a “pecking order” - which includes grammars, denominational schools and comprehensives with between 10 and 25 per cent selection and now, of course, schools with specialist status.
The Government allows and encourages this situation, so it should not be surprised if some schools are at the bottom of the pile. Heads who work tirelessly to do their best for students in the toughest schools should be supported and thanked - many heads in less difficult schools would not know where to start.
Linda Dunman
102 Mulgrave Road, Sutton, Surrey