AS a pupil at one of Wirral's fine grammar schools, I am aware that my point of view will not be accepted as valid by all readers as I might be seen as biased. Nevertheless, I would like to add to the debate my views in defence of Wirral's status quo.

Although no system is perfect, I think what we have is the best system available, for entry to a grammar school is judged solely on academic ability and not one's means to pay.

If we shut down the grammar schools, only the bright but rich would be able to obtain a calibre of education associated with the grammar school, as private schools will remain and the system will be less fair than at present.

It is a fact that children have different academic abilities and the concepts of 'fairness' and 'equality' have come to mean 'equality of outcome', which shifts diversity, creativity and talent, for those who are able become bored and those who are less able struggle to keep up in the 'one size fits all' classroom. Children need to work at their own level and pace.

The present system doesn't give children the 'failure' stigma if they do not attend a grammar school.

Everyone wants to do their best for his or her child and the system of selection allows everyone in Wirral who needs a high-calibre education to get what is only available to the rich in other countries.

That is the true equality of opportunity!

Steve Molloy, St Anselm's College Lower VI (address supplied)