LEAGUE tables were always controversial. Critics say they do not show a true picture of what goes on in a school while supporters say the tables help keep schools on their toes.

The new tables show that only 41 per cent of pupils in the borough are leaving with GCSE passes in maths and English and only 38 per cent are achieving five or more GCSEs at A to C including English and maths.

This is the first year that the core subjects English and maths have been included in the five GCSE passes and has resulted in Bolton dropping four places nationally to 111.

While these results could, and should, be improved, parents must look at what is happening over the whole school.

Philip Williamson, the head teacher of Canon Slade, which was the top performing state school in the borough, says that while league tables are useful in comparing schools, they are not the only guide to what is or is not a good school.

As he says, it is important for schools to help pupils develop their full potential regardless of ability and social background.

That said, it is time that all schools concentrated all their undoubted resources and skills into a massive push to make sure every pupil leaves school numerate and literate.