SIR - May I offer my congratulations to Carlton Bolling College. Firstly on choosing to build on current progress at the school and staying under democratic control. Secondly, for resisting the pressure from government in its determination to privatise anything that is run by, or as influence in locally-controlled institutions.

It seems that Councillor David Ward and the governors at the school are in the minority when it comes to opposing the selling off of our most precious possession, that of children's minds.

Myself, and many others wish everyone at the school well and hope Rhodesway can follow their example.

Christopher Cheetham (Campaign for the Advancement of State Education) Rossefield Road, Heaton