SIR: I note from newspaper reports that the character of Stocks Park School in Horwich will be changing from September, 1996, when the school is intended to serve pupils aged nine years to 16, who have emotional and behavioural difficulties. It is probable that the Education Committee have been driven by budgetary considerations, as well as by their perceived and received ideas, about the best way to educate children who suffer from the difficulties I have mentioned.

However, as a peripatetic teacher who has worked at Stocks Park School for five years, I hope the Education Committee's decision will not be regretted. Stocks Park School, as it is now operating, gives primary school pupils a fresh chance to succeed in areas where, in mainstream schools, they meet constant failure.

Stocks Park School takes pupils from a young age and, in an atmosphere of fair and firm and, above all, consistent discipline, helps them learn how to behave as part of a group, with a growing sense of responsibility for their own actions. It is not an easy task, but great progress is made because of the commitment, care and high calibre of all the staff.

The school has emerged with a successful OFSTED report, which makes the decision to change its character all the more puzzling.

M Riley,

Lymbridge Drive,

Blackrod.

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