Introduction

Chapter 1 introduces the controversial topic of segregation by ‘ability’ within education. Focused on attainment grouping within schools, it argues that segregation by ‘ability’ is both socially divisive, and detrimental to students with low prior attainment – and that both these elements increase socio-economic gaps for educational attainment. The chapter outlines the rationale for the ‘Best Practice in Grouping Students’ study conducted in England – the most substantial and ambitious empirical project on attainment grouping in recent years – on which the book will report. Finally, it describes the structure and content of the book.