Churchill's defence

I was very concerned to read a letter ("Imperial versus imperious", THES, December 24/31, 1999) from Nick Huismans critical of admissions procedures at Churchill College and the interview I had with him.

Churchill is a modern, relaxed and friendly college and we attempt to conduct our admissions procedures accordingly.

We always welcome feedback and, when we carry out our review of our recent admissions programme shortly, we shall certainly consider the points raised by Mr Huismans concerning our general procedures for handling applicants when they are here for interviews.

It is worth noting, however, that we do provide numerous opportunities for visiting the college and for obtaining information about it, though well in advance of interviewing days themselves.

With regard to Mr Huismans's perception of my interviewing as aggressive, I am sorry that that was the impression.

Among other things, I was attempting to explore in some detail certain issues where clarification was likely to be crucial for a fair assessment of Mr Huismans's application.

I wish Mr Huismans success in pursuing a degree in engineering.

K. M. Knowles

Admissions tutor

Churchill College

Cambridge