This paper explores reasons why secondary schools with a religious character have pupil intakes that are of a higher social background and ability than their secular counterparts. We show that this is especially true across all regions in England once the characteristics of the pupils living in the local neighbourhoods are taken into account. Data…

Focuses on the financing of school-based education in England. Outlines the policy context beginning in 1997, examines the current funding system, and explores the government review of the current system of finance. Examines the use of grants to fund government initiatives and proposes a new mechanism for determining necessary funds. (CMK)

Explores the ways in which mothers and fathers are involved in their children's education both in and out of school. Indicates that mothers generally assume overriding responsibility for their children's education. Reports that the more highly educated mothers try to increase their children's chances of success in the educational system. (CMK)

Analyzes student assessment results at Key Stage 1 in three core curriculum areas and in terms of performance across these areas. Demonstrates that background factors have differential affects on various subject attainments, raw data systematically penalize disadvantaged inner-city schools, and school policies and practices measurably affect…

Reports on an investigation of the attitudes of British children aged 6 through 7 from a variety of different backgrounds toward specific curricular areas. Reveals that three key dimensions can be used heuristically to conceptualize children's attitudes: interest versus boredom, the level of difficulty, and success versus failure. Discusses…

Reports on two studies of British parental attitudes toward coeducational and single-sex secondary schools. Finds few differences between the parents of primary school girls and boys who will attend secondary schools in the future. Also finds a large majority of boys' parents believe that social advantages accrue for boys educated with girls. (CFR)