ALAN Taylor's entertaining observations on leaving school ("It is simple.

The skill is in acquiring knowledge", The Herald, December 17) reminded me of similar experiences.

Three generations of our family have attended the same local primary school. On my departure (pre school parents' evenings) I was given great encouragement. Several decades later my son received the terse assessment : " He will never be a high flyer." Ironically, my son blossomed at secondary school, graduated in law and is now a Senior RAF officer.

Perhaps this gives a salutary hint to those intent on making unhelpful predictions on matters on which they are patently unqualified to comment.

I am pleased to confirm that normal service of encouragement and praise has been resumed vis-a-vis the present family generation.

Allan C Steele,

22 Forres Avenue,

Giffnock.