Regarding David Hanson’s comments on grammar school education (“Selection does not serve every child well”, Letters, 12 October), those of us who work hard in community grammar schools in the state sector to support pupils of all backgrounds to achieve the best possible outcomes do not, I suggest, need to take lessons on inclusiveness from Mr Hanson. He doesn’t seem to see the irony in his condemnation of schools that select by ability while at the same time representing schools that select by ability to pay. With regard to his ideas for allowances and bursaries so that poor families can go to prep schools, no doubt the demand for places would far exceed capacity. How does he propose the lucky youngsters are selected - by a test, perhaps?

Simon Marsh, Deputy head, Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys.