Just when I thought I could not be more depressed on the subject of primary school places, the Tories are proposing giving them Academy status. This means interference from sponsors, semi-selection, a disengagement from the community – all the reasons why Academies at secondary level are a major problem but with added absurdity.

I cannot understand why Con-Lab politicians can’t understand that it’s not structures but resources and quality management that count. A good head teacher and some decent building make all the difference.

If we had ‘Academies’ in St Albans those without places might find themselves discriminated against even more because of admissions rules determined by the schools. Moreoever, very small organisations with huge autonomy will need to employ more admin staff. That’s money taken away from teaching.