I WAS surprised, and to some extent offended, to read Christian Dunston's recent letter regarding his experience of steering his partner’s son's admission into a local secondary school.
Whilst I have some sympathy with his stance in relation to f
aith school access, I feel I must respond regarding the implied criticism of Rossett School.
Two of my sons attended Rossett as we, as parents, were keen for them to attend a good 'choice' school which develops individual talents and abilities. Both of our boys were very happy there and both benefitted from the nurturing environment which is generated, and from the positive and caring atmosphere that the school promotes.
The school is led by a talented and committed head teacher and a strong teaching staff. Last years's GCSE results (94 per cent A-C passes) illustrated the enormous progress that has made academically in recent times and produced grades which would be wholeheartedly applauded and accepted by parents across the country.
Perhaps there lies the problem? Harrogate is blessed with a number of outstanding schools and it is human nature, perhaps, to establish a perceived 'pecking order' based largely on historical academic results.
Whilst other high schools in the town accept children based upon a selective process of one kind or another (religious or financial) Rossett succeeds sometimes in spite of its circumstances. It should be applauded for doing so.
There are many reasons why the current system is unjust, and unfair, and these issues will remain until the Government works towards creating a secular system which provides equal opportunities for all.
In the meantime Mr Dunston and his partner may feel that they have failed to jump through the hoops necessary for entry to a selective school but they have not failed as parents. Rossett is a very good school; it is time that is recognised as such.
