Pupils want discipline

SIR – I see that members of the National Union of Teachers, at its annual conference, argued against discipline in schools (report, April 1). One speaker asserted that workingclass children are most likely to be disciplined. How sadly predictable.

Years ago, on my appointment as headmaster of a magnificent purposebuilt comprehensive school under the Inner London Education Authority, an important priority was to get it under control. Disruption was widespread in the classrooms and damage to the premises was costing a great deal.

It took several years to bring this about. As a result, it became one of the most heavily oversubscribed schools in London. Of course, making sure that the needs of all pupils were met, including those with an inclination to prevent any teaching taking place, was equally important.

My arrival also called for a change in the staff, 30 of whom resigned at the end of my first term. It was essential to get rid of teachers who took the view that nothing much could be done for young people of low ability, which conveniently excused them from properly addressing their needs

Most parents want to send their children to schools where they know firm discipline applies. Most young people, who are well behaved and keen to learn, do not wish troublemakers to rule the roost, play up the staff and wreck the joint. Peter Dawson

Borrowash, Derbyshire