Education in England : A Study of Cardinal Pole School

Abstract

The problem: The purpose of this study was to research the secondary educational process at Cardinal Pole School, London, United Kingdom. The research examined the day to day educational process at the school. Procedure: The research was conducted during a Fulbright Teacher Exchange assignment to Cardinal Pole School in London. Several methods of research were used to gather data. The project began August 5, 1986 with a five day seminar at American University in Washington, D.C., which focused on a general overview of the British educational process was presented. The data for the school structure, curriculum and flnance were gathered through observation and participation in daily school activities, and interviews with the people responsible for specific areas of the educational process. Findings: Research was divided among several areas within the educational structure. A history of British Education was examined to establish an evolutionary basis for the present educational system. Other educational areas described in this research were philosophy, educational structure, the national examination system, the Cardinal Pole School structure of staffing, students, curriculum, and finance. Conclusion: Following the historical evolution of education in England, competency based testing is a logical development. The present national testing scheme separates and benefits the academically talented students. It would be difficult and certainly a slow prorcess, to develop any other educational system.