ABSTRACT
General studies originated in some modest attempts by both independent and maintained schools to broaden the curricular demands on sixth formers beyond their examination courses. The diversification of general studies provision has increased the logistic problems facing the small 16-19 unit. The lack of any direct connection between most liberal studies courses and students' specialist vocational training led to a shift in emphasis in the general education of most Further Education (FE) students. The core skills development is changing the emphasis of 16-19 general education, but with significantly different effects on the academic and vocational curriculum. The extra-curricular dimension to school life is an important part of the English tradition of education. FE colleges have bred their own particular reaction to over-specialisation. The tradition of general education for vocational course students was not dissimilar to that for their academic counterparts, but there are significant differences in the way it has developed.
