Never play safe

17th December 2004, 12:00am
I am becoming increasingly concerned about the “wisdom” emanating from David Collins, principal of South Cheshire college, (FE Focus, November 19). The message appears to be “play safe and get good grades”. FE never has or should play safe. It must do what is best for the student.

This college is diverse and large and, according to the Office for Standards in Education, “outstanding”. With our 900 14 to 16-year-olds and 1,000-plus higher education students, life is complex and that is why this sector is fabulous.

How could I hold my head high if I excluded the most challenging and the most challenged learners who may have been failed by the school system.

Ioan Morgan Principal, Warwickshire college Leamington Spa, Warwickshire