I WAS interested to read Susie Matthews’s comment that government attempts to boost university access for state-school pupils amount to social engineering (TES, October 18). Since when is it fairer to make decisions based on privilege and money? I get concerned about people who do not recognise that they are fortunate and not simply better. She obviously does not have a clue about the impact of poverty on children - lack of books, parental support and ICT in the home. These pupils are not less able than her daughter, but have had further to run to get to the starting post.

Janet Putman

Head, Castle Vale School and Specialist Performing Arts College

Castle Vale, Birmingham