I think education needs to be flexible. I know of a young lad who has ADHD – he’s not very bright, causes a bit of trouble at school but spent the whole of the summer holidays working on a nearby farm and had the time of his life. Up at 6.30 every morning, riding around on tractors etc, his behaviour impeccable. 50 years ago, he would have probably given up on education by now and gone to work on a farm and had a happy life, these days though, life has got too complicated and it doesn’t seem to be able to accommodate children who have practical skills as oppose to academic ones.

We need more ‘schools’ that teach practical skills and stop flogging a dead horse when it comes to the 3 r’s. Yes, all children should be able to read and write but taught in conjuction with practical skills the children would then understand the necessity for some academic ability and if they see a reason would probably work harder.

Like all other child related issues, more care, time and thought is needed. No profit involved, so it might not ever happen.