[Margaret Pilkington]

We have to admit that not all children are academically gifted, and those who aren't will struggle with the work required of them at Uni.
I agree that schools should differentiate between those with practical skills, and those who are academic...and if we do not wish to rear a generation of disillusioned young adults. then these should be directed towards achieving life skills.......teach plumbing, gas fitting, woodwork. metalwork....things that will make good use of the hands on stuff that some children would be better at.
It is better to be able to succeed at something than to constantly stuggle with concepts that you are never going to grasp.

Do refuse operatives need a degree couse to do their work?

We really need to value those who do the jobs that make life bearable, but that do not require the mental sharpness of an Einstein.