Teacher training

According to reports, many teachers have problems concerning basic numeracy and literacy.

Frankly, that would surprise very few people. If you look at the statistics for teacher training it becomes apparent that we are looking at a course that hardly anybody fails.

"Studying" a few modules of psychology, say, does not make one a psychologist. As for cosmetic teaching "methods", they are theories that seem to change with the weather.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate has stated that head teachers should have fixed-term contracts. Surely common sense would tell you that. It is also worthy of note that a head teacher, to become such, does not need specific qualifications.

JOHN BOWES

Prospecthill Court

Greenock