Lesson for an exam board: letter

I read with interest the article on the case of Simon Zekaria and the dispute with the Midlands Examining Group over his GCSE grade for English Literature ("Father sues over 'wrong' mark", 30 June). It would be unwise for me to comment on the actual case, especially as the headmaster gave an undertaking to the board that the school would have to consider the matter closed. However, I was one of the form teachers who travelled to Birmingham to view the scripts, and what I saw was of absolutely no use in "helping to improve English teaching at the school" - the reason for the board releasing the scripts. The board's assertion that the school and, specifically, its English department was responsible for what happened is misleading. Results at University College School have been outstanding for many years in GCSE and A-Level English. The grades have been achieved in an atmosphere of scholarship, real curiosity and good humour. Rather, I would suggest the board have something to learn from us.

Dr S Jacobi

University College School,

Hampstead, London NW3