As the Education Reform Act was going through Parliament we pointed out to MPs that it gave unprecedented powers to the Secretary of State and that decisions would be made that would eventually have to be tested in law.

A decision has been tested by one professional organisation. A limit of the Secretary of State’s powers has been established in one area.

I understand the frustration and anger that this has caused but it is very short-sighted of therest of the education profession when they castigate the National Union of Teachers for achieving a principle that they would normally support.

The continued bullying of the profession by the Government and the denial of reasoned input into all areas of education has got too many teachers at all levels into submissive mode.

It is disingenuous of people like Brian Hartley to try to belittle those who are trying to bring some sense into the world of education.

Bill Morehead

School governor

33 Brompton Walk

Darlington

County Durham