MADAM - It seems as reported in the November 5 edition, that our local Labour party candidate is working to prevent the people of Stroud from making their own decisions regarding their children’s education.

The free school concept may have been introduced in a cack-handed way by the Tories, the principle behind it however is entirely appropriate in this day and age.

It is a principle that should be welcomed by all progressive thinking people.

Up until now anyone wishing to choose another kind of education for their children has had to pay for it privately.

A state funded free school gives everyone the right to choose their school, surely a true egalitarian principle.

The argument that “there is no justification in terms of student numbers” and that “a free school would be damaging to existing schools in the district” is manifest nonsense.

If a new school is established and is attended in preference to others it is surely to be welcomed.

An existing school that fears losing pupils can improve what it is offering and if it is successful the pupils will come streaming back.

Having a wide range of educational opportunities is a far better way of improving standards in education than focusing on league tables.

Parents and children are surely the best judges of what makes a good education rather than well meaning but often misguided national and local authorities.

Education authorities both national and local need to create the framework within which schools operate but then leave the curriculum and teaching methods to the professionals involved.

This framework includes providing equal access to all, upholding child protection, health and safety etc. but leaves the teachers free to teach, manage their school and develop their own curriculum without interference.

The free school model offers an opportunity to give teachers the acknowledgement they deserve and the space to be creative.

Instead of political point scoring and being beholden to vested interests the Stroud Labour Party should be actively working with all progressive forces to create the conditions in which free and independent education that is accessible to all, can thrive.

Bernard Jarman

Stroud