We do have a lot in common, I am also 46 though I reckon I have done 24 years’ service. We have shared as many secretaries of state (and, I am sure, shudder with an equal chill at the name of John Patten). I have done in-service training in my own time and at my own expense - not to the dizzy heights of an MEd, but three years for a BEd. I have been inspected, appraised, interviewed (and rejected!) and done the PTA, the residentials, bought my own computer and so on. I have been angered, frustrated and reduced to bitter tears by some of the antics of our country’s leaders. I can even claim to have been assaulted by two parents. So why couldn’t I have written the article?

In common with nearly every parent and carer in the country, I want the very best for my child. As my child starts his secondary education next autumn I want every teacher at the school to forget years of Conservative rule (particularly Mr Patten) and every one of Mr Blunkett’s pronouncements that angers or irritates them. I want them to forget their worries about their mortgage or their anger that perhaps they won’t be one of those super-teachers. I want them to forget that they are tired. I want them to remember to keep the school’s promise. In return I promise I will do my best to support them by doing the same, I too promise to forget about the mortgage, the politicians, the tiredness, the unfairness of it all, because I might just be teaching one of their offspring and just like mine, they deserve the best.

And I don’t think this article helps us keep our shared promise.

Martin Dove Headteacher Northfield School Northfield Lane South Kirkby Pontefract