Michael Gove’s plans may end up backfiring as he notes the similarity between a surgeon and his “craft” (The TES and Magazine, November 19).

A surgeon usually sorts out the problem for the patient, so will the teachers’ role be to consider how to repair the inadequacies of our young children? Surely the role of a teacher is to create a learning environment that engages young people in personal development through a range of subjects and activities.

Or are we returning to the good old days of filling up the “empty vessels”? Mr Gove goes on to suggest that teachers need intellectual qualities, knowledge and craft; surely he means emotional qualities, pedagogy and facilitation.

Nigel Green, By email.