And I disagree with you about good teachers. They are NOT, imo, 'in general' but 'in the minority'.

And there we have it. The point of disagreement. In my opinion they are, in the main, good. Like all other walks of life, apart from politics where they are all idiots, I believe the majority of people are good at what they do. The fact that you chose to believe the worse is pretty significant. In other things you tell us that you are optimistic, 'half full', positive. You frown upon people who are nay-sayers and yet, over this one point, you have decided that the majority of teachers are bad. Why is that? I am no psychologist so I will not even attempt to find out but one thing I will say. If you do not know one way or another, do not argue about it. Get the facts first. Argue from a solid standpoint.

I am not going to quote any facts and figures but I am pretty sure that any survey will support the view that most people are good at what they do, enjoy it and give their all to make sure other people benefit. Whether they are shopkeepers or teachers.

Give it up Lizzie. We are never going to change your mind. What makes you think you are going to change anyone elses?

DeG

BTW - I remember every single one of my teachers at secondary school. All but one were brilliant.