Some good points on here already. I am always surprised that teaching isn't given the higher status it deserves as a profession. Our future generations are in the hands of these wonderful people we send our children to every day.

While it is true that a good teacher must be more than just an intellectual in their chosen field, they must be able to impart knowledge recognising different learning abilities and hopefully possess a love of teaching. Noting this however, the standards have definitely dropped too low and even in years past, teachers were accepted in Teacher Colleges after failing Matriculation (probably ostensibly to keep the numbers up). Now that education has become a commdodity this situation may worsen (not only in the field of teaching).

The fact that some universities offer remedial English to students is a real worry. One would assume a higher level of ability if the student has succeeded in gaining entry at this level.

If teachers were paid in line with other professions (some of whom are overpaid due to market demands) and the entrance score lifted I am sure the standards of teaching would be improved and the shortages in the areas of science and languages alleviated.

I am not certain if this is still the case but medical students had to pass a 'suitability' interview as well as achieving a high score to gain entry into the field. This requirement may have changed with the shortage in doctors over the last few years, but perhaps a similar interview for aspiring teachers to select on suitability as well as intellect.