A major public school

SIR – Andrew Wauchope (Letters, January 6), replying to my letter (January 5), suggests that only the seven schools listed in the Public Schools Act of 1868 are “major” and that all other public schools are “minor”.

The Act itself was created to improve the poor governance of the named schools, not lionise them. Notwithstanding the Rugby Group and Eton Group lists of schools, there exists no last word on what a “major” public school is.

A school – public or state – should surely be judged on the overall performance of its alumni. Even a cursory glance at Sherborne School’s alumni would indicate that it is a major public school.

Robin Price

Taunton, Somerset

SIR – The revelations in Prince Harry’s book send a useful message about the dangers of drugs – and an Eton education.

Michael Holman

London N1