Malcolm Tozer (“State pupils do have the mettle for medals”, 3 August) is right to highlight sporting the excellence achieved in both independent and maintained sector schools. One common feature is that provision relies on the dedication of inspirational teachers who donate their own time to coaching and mentoring. However, it shouldn’t be surprising that provision in the state sector is patchy, particularly as Ofsted pays little attention to this area. The new inspection framework from September won’t improve things. The word “sport” does not appear in the Ofsted framework, and other extracurricular activities that give pupils opportunities to excel outside the classroom are equally ignored. It is no wonder that many heads, worried about their next inspection, take a narrow view of what is important. If the government really wanted to improve sport in state schools, it would instruct Ofsted to report on it.

Neil Roskilly, Chief executive, Independent Schools Association.