Before Tony Callaghan puts all the blame on heads for not excluding pupils for violent behaviour, he should reflect that Ofsted is also a factor (Inbox, TES, April 13). Three years ago, I was warned by my former local authority adviser that my temporary exclusions were too high and that this was a potential school failure in Ofsted’s eyes. Schools with withdrawal or inclusion units and mentorscounsellors have an alternative to exclusion in all but the most extreme cases, but my school is not that well off. Since then, I feel we have walked a tightrope. Bolshy parents and the media are small beer next to the ruthless power of the inspectorate.

Tony Laycock Primary head, Address supplied