THE government has placed education on top of its agenda. It has also promoted the concepts of quality, fairness and equality of treatment.

It is generally recognised that the early years are important for the formation of a child and his/her progress into adolescence and beyond. Correction of problems early on can lead to fewer problems later, and a great deal less expense.

However, Bolton Education, part of a Labour Council, seems to be "flying in the wind" with regard to the above. Bureaucrats, employed to undertake both Council and Government policy, seem to be intent on simply reducing expenditure by employing SNAs and volunteer readers to carry out literacy and numeracy hours and to give tuition on a one-to-one basis to those with such special needs as travellers, autism, Down's Syndrome, rather than using specially-qualified, but more expensive, NNEBs.

Furthermore, Bolton Education seems to be negating its responsibilities with regard to the above and also to the provision of supply staff by giving head teachers "pots of gold" to use as they wish.

Parents of children who have learning problems should ask head teachers, indeed badger them, about the quality and experience of those employed to help their children.

Educator

(name and address supplied)

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