SIR - The end of an era. Middle Schools are no more. Thank goodness, say some, for others it's a sad end. But as Mark Anthony might have said, had he been a teacher in a Middle School: "I come not to bury Middle Schools but to praise them". Or more particularly, one Middle School, Calversyke.

I have now worked at Calversyke Middle School for the last six years and I regard it very much as a success story. This may well all appear as a little self-congratulatory; but as we are unlikely to receive praise from elsewhere and the fact that some may perceive the 'failure' of the three-tier system as being down to its middle schools, I feel the need to do a bit of 'blowing our own trumpet'.

At Calversyke the standards achieved have improved consistently over the last six years. Indeed by one measure, SATs results, we have improved by some 351 per cent since the tests were first introduced. Academic standards have imp-roved across the board and attitudes to work are very positive. Participation in sports and performing arts has increased, and staff offer a wide range of activities that provide extension and enrichment.

It has, for example, not been uncommon for over half the school to be still there an hour after the formal end of the day at a sports practice, study club, rehearsal for a musical production or similar activity. Atten-dance this year is very close to the national average, having improved by five per cent over recent years.

Behaviour is considerably improved and we have done much to reduce bullying and other anti-social behaviour. The behaviour from our children is often impressive by any standards, but particularly to those people who would regard our catchment area as somewhat notorious. Visitors and supply teachers often comment on the very positive attitudes in school. And when children do misbehave, we are proud of our firm response.

Well I would say all that wouldn't I?

What I do want to acknowledge is the excellent staff we have at the school. Given the fact that we have worked for the last three years under the shadows of the 'review' and then the reorganisation itself, the achievements at the school are remarkable. The staff, a hardworking and committed group of people, have continued to show a very positive attitude throughout that period. School improvement has been central to our thinking, and as we close the school we can do so with our heads held high, immensely proud of our achievements.

Anybody not following the plot of Bradford's School Reorganisation may well ask: "well if the school's that good, why close it down?"

Good question, I say! How-ever, now is not the time to resurrect arguments of 'two-tier' versus 'three-tier'. I do, however, believe that in all the changes Bradford is losing some excellent schools.

I hope very much that the new system will bring benefits for all children. The stresses and strains of managing the change have at times been horrendous; I want it to be worth it. Reorganisation has, I believe, placed intolerable stress on both school-based and LEA staff. I have no doubts that the two-tier system can be made to work in Bradford. It is the sheer practical difficulties of achieving the changeover in such an impossible timescale that will cast a doubt over its success in the short term. However, our ex-political masters and soon to be privatised LEA officers have deemed it the right thing to do. I hope the second part of the quote from Mark Anthony (quoted more accurately this time) "The evil that men do lives after them" will not be the case!

Calversyke has been an excellent school to work at. I pay tribute to the staff who have worked so hard for the benefit of the children. I also thank the children for their hard work, friendliness, enthusiasm and good humour. Well done everyone!

DAVID BRETT,

Headteacher, Calversyke

Middle School.

SIR - I feel I must write regarding the closure of Calversyke. Mr Brett and his staff have done the school proud and haven't had the recognition that they deserve. Over the last term, every stop has been pulled out to give the children a brilliant send-off - including discos, firework displays, and trips to France and Lightwater Valley. My son was lucky enough to go on all the trips and really enjoyed himself. I feel the school did only good things for my son and I am grateful for their help and support. I wish Mr Brett and his staff good luck and hope they all find new employment. They all deserve it.

MRS E M HEATH,

Highfield Road, Keighley.

Thanks 1..

SIR - A big thanks to Gary Pedley and his team of skilled volunteers from the Grass Roots Project. I understand they liaise with Keighley Volun-tary Service, who also do a great job. Anyone who can contribute - time, money or unwan-ted furniture, would be most appreciated. Contact Mr Pedley on 665258.

MRS B COATES,

Riddlesden.

Thanks 2..

SIR - What a pleasant surprise when a Parker pen popped through the letter box. All to do, it seems, with my letter about the boat-men on Keighley Tarn finding its way to your 'Letter of the Week' slot. I cannot help but write to say how much this gesture is appreciated.

MR R MITCHELL,

Crossfield Road, Oxenhope.