I HAVE read quite a lot in the local press about Durham Free School in recent weeks and would like to share a parent’s perspective.

The thing that attracted me to Durham Free School when I was looking at schools for my daughter is the emphasis placed upon attitudes and values.

I’m not a religious person, but it’s important to me that my child grows up knowing how to treat people, as well as how to pass exams. The school’s core values offer an excellent grounding for all children growing up in modern Britain.

I have watched her and her friends grow in confidence and knowledge during the past year. I attribute this to the outstanding dedication of many staff members, the nurturing environment and the fantastic range of extra-curricular activities on offer, which would rival those available at many private schools.

It saddens me when I hear all the political noise about Durham Free School.

When I read comments such as those made by Tristram Hunt about free schools being a, ‘vanity project for yummy mummies’ it makes me realize just how out of touch some politicians are.

There is a reason why the majority of free schools have opened in Labour-controlled areas; because the educational provision was not meeting the needs of the people in those areas.

C Heathcote, Coxhoe