The experience of 50 years of comprehensive schooling in Scotland. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Howieson, Cathy; Croxford, Linda; Murphy, Daniel
• Other Names: Riddel Sheila guest-editor.; Weedon Elisabet guest-editor.; Hjörne Eva guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Education, citizenship and social justice. Volume 12:Number 1(2017:Mar.)
• Page Start: 8
• Page End: 23
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: comprehensive education -- Curriculum for Excellence -- equality -- equity -- social class; Citizenship -- Periodicals; Education -- Periodicals; Social justice -- Periodicals; 303.372
• DOI: 10.1177/1746197916683465
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-1979

Abstract

The year 2015 was the 50th anniversary of the introduction of comprehensive schooling in Scotland. This article outlines the two models of comprehensive schooling pursued over this period: the first which aimed to promote a universal, common system, and the second, from around 2000, which has prioritised diversity and choice. Equality (in its various forms) is one of the underpinning principles of comprehensive schooling, and the article considers the impact of comprehensive reform on inequalities, in particular, in respect of social class. It concludes that Scotland has been largely successful in achieving equality of opportunity, has made some progress towards equality of value but equality of outcome has proved elusive. The article highlights the continuing impact of the wider social determinants of inequality and of the selective function of education. It raises concerns that recent reforms, in particular, the Senior Phase of Curriculum for Excellence, may be exacerbating social inequalities in outcomes.