Anybody who has studied education over the past forty years is aware that secondary education in England is the subject of continuous and continuing debate. Everyone has been to school and therefore everyone lays claim to some expertise--the lot of teachers is never easy. But it is a contention of this article that teachers are at least partly…

Conant's "The American High School Today" (1959) conveyed his confidence in consolidation of smaller schools into comprehensive high schools. The book sparked criticism. Conant's personal papers reveal that his breezy optimism hid doubts, frustrations, and uncertainties. The contradiction in his views foreshadows the turbulent 1960s. (PB)

Analyzes the introduction and development of comprehensive education in the west of Scotland from 1965-80. Examines curriculum development, the role of the advisory service, the contribution of in-service training, and the ability grouping of students. Concludes that the efforts to help teachers with the transition had mixed results. (KS)