The English Sixth Form: A case study in curriculum research

First published in 1974, The English sixth form presents a comprehensive overview of the explicit characteristics and implications of sixth-form courses in an institutional context and in relationship to other organizations. The sixth form is an institution devoted mainly to providing an academic education for students who wish to remain in school beyond leaving age. Sixth forms are not self-contained institutions; they consist of the top class or classes in secondary schools receiving pupils from age of 11 or 12, or less frequently, 13 or 14. The book discusses crucial themes like the curriculum of the sixth form; the attitudes of sixth form teachers to the curriculum; the structure of the aims and objectives; influences and constraints; and the role of the universities. This book is an essential read for scholars and researchers of secondary education, school education, and education in general.