ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with an exploration of the relationship between the underpinning philosophy as to the function or purpose of education, its importance and the impact this has on the way in which a society’s education systems are formally organised. The impact this has had on the evolution of formal English systems of education provides a basis, which will allow you to compare and explore the differences and similarities of a range of alternative national systems. If a society believes education should be to prepare young people for a world of work, then the curriculum in that system will be work-related and focused. This means vocational qualifications are highly regarded, as is the case in Germany, for example. In Japan, however, a significant number of young people are enrolled in private schools to enhance opportunities for attainment in a society where academic achievement is highly sought after and valued. We will finish by exploring whether there should be a global, or universal, entitlement to education for every young person.
