I read the report about the Queen Katherine School, Kendal, Ofsted report and how the school is planning to build a perimeter fence (Gazette, February 16, 'School fights Ofsted report').

I was head of a Community Comprehensive School in Cambridgeshire. People of all ages and with many needs (educational and social) came and went all day.

There were no fences and we welcomed all.

Do we really want to educate our children in fenced-off monastic seclusion?

If education is a preparation for life, in all its aspects then the sooner they become aware of the real world the better.

There are no fences in the High Street.

Anyway, if the 'intruders' were, in fact, found, that proves that the school is vigilant. So why put up a fence? Spend the money on books and sports gear!

Maurice Dybeck

Kirkby Lonsdale