MICHAEL Gove’s relationship with the teaching profession has taken a bit of a turn for the worse.

The government sparked anger from teachers’ leaders yesterday after writing to schools warning that union members taking industrial action are “highly likely” to be in breach of their contract.

Mr Gove has written to schools saying the action over a range of issues including pay, pensions, job losses and workload, was threatening the quality of pupils’ education.

Let’s hope the row doesn’t overshadow the primary school results out today. They show the number of 11-year-olds reaching the government’s required standard has risen in the three local education authority areas.

The improvement in Bournemouth is particularly significant.

It’s an achievement to be shared and celebrated by pupils, staff and parents across the county.

It’s a solid foundation upon which to build in the coming years.