UNTIL now, I have resisted the temptation to jump in on the Christopher Whitehead saga.

Frankly, I really am not in the least interested in the final outcome, despite the fact that Neil Morris, the headteacher, is my brother-in-law and John Hinton, my father.

What does really interest me however, is the peculiar way in which, time and time again, people generally never seem to want to take the advice of those who are there on the "ground floor"

These are the individuals with first-hand experience of any given situation, the ones who really do know, fully understand what is going on, and know what is truly needed.

Instead, the decision-making always seems to be done by politicians, so-called experts and anyone and everyone else.

Here's a simple, recent example that I encountered. I am Director of Music at a multi-million dollar theatre and arts complex in the USA.

Recently it was decided that a new piano and drum kit were needed for one of the departments.

Who was sent to choose and make the purchases?

Well, it wasn't me. I was asked once, casually, for my opinion. The piano was chosen by the senior sound engineer and the drumkit, not by an experienced percussionist but by the senior choreographer. Of course!

All I can say with any certainty is that Christopher Whitehead School has a very dedicated head teacher. From all he tells me it would appear that he has a very dedicated staff.

Why won't the politicians, councillors, parents and residents who all think you know best, allow the teaching staff of this school to make the most informed, personal agenda free and best decision for your children?

PHIL HINTON,

Florida, USA.