Trading Places on Channel 5

I haven't seen it yet but will look it up.

My kids at rural state comp in Scotland all got individual encouragement and support from staff. My teen Grandkids at a different state city comp in Scotland also get individual support, morale boosting and encouragement from staff.

This was particularly needed by GS who did not have an easy step up to high school (socially / academically) and I was impressed with how well the school handled that and nurtured him. He "turned a corner" (both counts) and now absolutely flourishing.

I haven't seen the programme, but the comments you make are fair and true. Thank you, Luckygirl.

I have taught in independent schools, and was Head for 12 years. Before I go any further, I will say there are many excellent state schools.

However, private schools come with a very strong school ethos. They're called independent schools precisely because they are independent of any interference and prescribed learning. That means that staff are innovative, enthusiastic, not burnt out and on the whole feel valued. We care about every individual child, but we don't measure everything on academic achievement, there are far more important things and private schools can always find an activity to engage and excite pupils. That's because they have the time, the small classes, great facilities and the money to do so.

I'm glad you mentioned self-esteem Luckygirl, that is always a priority. Add to that, high expectations of oneself and a pride in everything you do, and you have a recipe for success.

I wish such an education could be available to every chilld in the land.
(Sermon over!)

I so wish that too. I felt very sad that these particular young people felt rejected by the system. It seems such a terrible waste of potential.

I would not remotely suggest that teachers in state schools care any less ... I just think they are struggling against lack of resources, having to deal with a raft of social problems, anarchic academy management and discipline issues in big classes. I do know how hard they work and how frustrated they become.

The truly wonderful head of music at my DGC's secondary has finally thrown in the towel and left after years of fighting the corner for her department against an academy leadership who just want STEM subjects to be taught. My DGC is only making progress with her music because her parents support her and I supply some of the tuition. But she is in the minority and much potential is going to waste.

Burnt out teachers cannot provide the impetus and support the pupils need, however much they would like to ... and I know it is what they want to do. I think they do a great job against all the odds and take my hats off to them.

In fact the private school that 2 of my GC go to have a wonderful outreach programme in lots of subjects and share their resources and staff with local state schools.

I watched it last night and thought it was very well done, a great insight into what education can be ; drawing out the best in everyone.

I sort of feel there is no dispute here.

Its what we would like for every child.

But resources dont allow it

Parental backing isnt always there

It has to be one of the toughest jobs around in some state schools

It just breaks my heart to think about all the wasted potential.