THE human race, especially the human body - designed to ensure the continuance of the human species - is extremely well thought out.

We have individual natural skills and talents, as the good Lord intended, as those people who exercise their natural skills of observation and perception will confirm.

Common sense, too, is a natural attribute which is not always apparent in the recipient of an over-privileged education.

Which damn fool, I wonder, decided that 50 per cent of our school leavers should enter higher education establishments at vast cost to the taxpayer, for three-year "full-time" (72 weeks) degree/ diploma courses, when already the drop out rates on some courses are 30 per cent?

The average IQ has not varied for years, even with the huge influx of immigrants at around the 100 mark.

People have different rates of mental development, emotional development and physical development.

To imply possession of a higher education qualification is synonymous with the qualities required for leadership/management is an insult to intelligence.

The route to operative/craft/technician/higher technician/ technologist/supervisory/management status - we each have a different "drop-off" point - may take various forms.

It is the end result that counts, the 'square peg in the square hole,' when the principles of systematic training demand modern methods of selection.

If training/education is to be effective, whether it be statutory, further or higher education, then it must be cost-effective.

Years ago I recall saying to my building craft students (day release from work for 36 days a year over four years - a number went on to higher education, part-time study and achieved management status) 'One day, laddies, you will become next to royalty!'

County Councillor Tom Wareing MCGI MCIOB MCIPD

Jays Close

Winyates Green