Letter: No seat on the train

Sir: Deborah Orr is right that the issue of courtesy could be addressed in schools.

Until recently, I taught at an independent Montessori school, where the children came from a wide range of backgrounds. From entering school at just under three, the children were gently schooled in the ways of greeting people politely, shaking hands, saying goodbye, taking turns, passing food to each other at lunchtime, learning how to interrupt appropriately, giving up their seats to visitors, queuing and so on.

Children take delight in learning these skills, particularly if presented with good adult role models.

HILARY RACKSTRAW

Atherstone, Warwickshire