Last week’s editorial is correct. Those of us arguing for greater equality should not be downhearted at the fact that “wider, largely economic, determinants” (particularly poverty) are the overriding influence on educational achievement. That may well apply generally but it does not necessarily apply to particular individuals. For some, although sadly not all, students, teachers can make a huge, life-enhancing difference. Most often that difference is not apparent at the time. The best teachers work on the assumption that such a student may well be in their class and teach accordingly.

Colin Richards, Spark Bridge, Cumbria.