I WISH to set the record straight in respect of teacher training days and not for the first time (Letters, February 20).

Historically most teachers spent two or three days in school voluntarily before the start of the Autumn term and at least a day before returning to school after other holidays.

The then Education Secretary Kenneth Baker decided, in his wisdom, he would make five training days mandatory, referred to as “Baker days”. To do so he reduced holiday entitlement by five days to accommodate them.

Teachers’ work is not complete when the pupils leave the building. The pupils work has to be marked, lessons for the following day have to be prepared during the evening impinging on their family and social time.

Teachers have always given freely of their time in the interest of their pupils. I am a former head teacher of 20 years duration, now retired.

Frank Veazey, Courtneys, Wheldrake, York.