DEAR EDITOR - Further to recent correspondence from past students of DroitwichHigh School and a response from the head-teacher, I wish to make a few observations on a personal basis, although I must state that I have been a governor at the school for five years, and chair for the past academic year.

The three views expressed by students have been published anonymously and this only serves to undermine the assertions. We are fortunate to live in a country where statements, accurate or otherwise, may be made freely, but this does not mean that any statement or view equates to fact.

Considerable undue damage can be done, unless some balancing response is given. Perception by a minority (however motivated) does not necessarily reflect reality.

a) Success, to whatever degree, must be a result of a combination of teaching, student ability, student application and even family support.

b) Droitwich Spa High School aims to help students of all abilities to maximise their respective potential. If deficiencies in teaching processes or systems are evident, I am well aware that the governors and head-teacher are fully committed to resolving them as expeditiously as possible.

c) The Sports College status has provided opportunities for all students, whether sporting or not, to benefit. The concept enriches and enhances the school. It does not distract, dilute or divert the focus on good education for all students.

I do find it rather sad that former students who have reached university, including Oxford, and indeed achieved five 'A' grades at A level believe the school has played such a minor role in this achievement and now warrants only anonymous castigation. Clearly the school did provide a significant contribution towards their development over many years.

It may be helpful to note that for A levels, the school has appeared in the top 50 schools nationally for four of the past five years (source The Independent). It has just achieved its best ever Key Stage Three results, above the national level. GCSE results have improved dramatically over the last five years with 52 per cent of students getting five A*-C grades.

I accept many of the above are my personal views, which may be deemed valid or otherwise by your readers, just as with previous correspondence. But, at least, your readers may draw their own conclusions.

Peter Evans,

Iona Chequers Lane,

Wychbold.

* Names were enclosed but witheld on past letters. This subject is now closed.

Editor.