EDUCATION secretary Michael Gove and his cabinet colleagues seem determined to insist that teachers work until they are 67.

Have they really considered the implications?

At present teachers retire at 60.

Teaching is a very demanding occupation and any teacher who has taught for 37 years will find the final years difficult when trying to motivate themselves to perform as well as in earlier years. Most teachers I know dread the thought of having to do seven extra years.

More importantly, has the cabinet given a thought to the children – young, lively, with enquiring minds and boundless energy?

Many parents in their late 30s find it hard to keep up with their children who find it easier to understand and master all the new products of this technical age.

Children can identify and empathise with teachers of similar age to their parents. They tolerate teachers in their 50s although these may be more of the age of their grandparents.

But do we really expect them to have anything in common with teachers the same age (67) as their great-grannies?

Are such teachers expected to share the visions and enthusiasms of a class of bright 10-year-olds?

Think again, Mr Gove.

JIM LAWES (aged 87), Honorary NASUWT Life Member, Park Street, Hereford.