Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book outlines the development of policies to combat racism in schools but finds that the political developments in Britain are seeing its return. It explores the issues of class and achievement in ‘social mobility and education’. The book shows how race, gender and class cross–or intersect –in the subject of educational achievement. It reviews the political concern and controversy around school inclusion and exclusion. It also explores the wide-ranging content of education, with some of the most exciting and distinctive features of the Education Studies palette. The book is concerned with the broad political and global dimensions of education, it is self-evident that knowledge and learning are its central concerns. It discusses how students are able to learn from placements in schools and other locations.