Secondary Concerns

Emily Thornberry has just told the Any Questions audience that going to a Secondary Modern school gave her the chip on her shoulder that she needed to push her on in life, so that she is now a barrister and an MP. And that is why she is against them!

I am not sure what to make of that. On the one hand, it illustrates the unanswerable response to those who shriek, "What about Secondary Moderns, eh, eh, why do you want them back?" They were far better than what has replaced them. Of the comprehensive school generation, how many who would not have passed the 11-plus, and who have been educated in the state sector, have gone on to become barristers or MPs?

But on the other hand, there is clearly something missing. Though no more than is missing from the numerous grammar school products who are opposed to the system that has served them so well, and society at large through them.

If we must have another Jarrow March this year, then it should be for the restoration of the schools so vigorously defended by Ellen Wilkinson when she was Education Secretary, but of which, in that same Cabinet position, Margaret Thatcher closed so many that there were not enough left at the end for her record ever to be equalled.