Simon Cowell, creator of The X Factor, has been roundly criticised for claiming that it is better to “get lucky” in life than to get a good education. “I didn’t work hard when I was at school. I left at 16 and I didn’t have any qualifications,” he said. “The secret is to be useless at school and then get lucky.” England’s education secretary Michael Gove labelled the comment “irresponsible and stupid”.

Must be ill, I agree with Gove!

@Connect_Assess

Agree with Michael Gove. Cowell just shows how we have developed a superstar mentality in kids. Get qualifications, get a job.

@GxPorte1

AE crisis as unprecedented number of teachers admitted with dropped jaw injuries following Mr Gove’s defence of teachers from Cowell.

@it_rob

A dreadful nightmare: Michael Gove is arguing with Simon Cowell. They’re in the same room, and you’re there with a gun BUT ONLY ONE BULLET.

@thewritertype.