FOR many years now I have thought that ‘stress’ is an overworked word when used in relation to children and exams.

Why is the expression used so much when in the 1950’s and 1960’s children also had exams but I cannot remember the word ‘stressful’ being used?

At Haughton County Secondary Modern School which I attended between 1958-62, each Christmas and summer exams were undertaken in at least 15 subjects.

I have today been looking at my reports. If children are given the right support, exams are a challenge.

I do remember them being a little worrying as much revision, in my case, was needed. It was part of schooling but a great relief when they were over. At exam time I always went off to school with my parent’s words ringing in my ears ‘just do your best’.

To a certain extent I blame the media for the over use of the word.

I agree for primary school children it is essential they know their multiplication tables. They are just so useful to know in the event of the calculator malfunctioning.

Where I do differ with Cllr Steve Kay, whose letters I always enjoy reading, is that I think the 11 and 12 times tables are of equal importance.

My grandson, age 9, loves me throwing problems at him relating to numbers, well I think he does or is he just humouring me?

Mike Taylor, Darlington