This book explores the experiences of young people as they move through the Irish secondary educational system. Drawing on a rich study which combines survey data with in-depth interviews with students, it addresses the key facets of schooling which influence young people's experiences. With chapters organised thematically, including ability grouping, school climate and the impact of high stakes examinations, the central dimensions of school structure and process is explored. Placing young people's voices centre stage, it explores how they respond to the school context and make decisions that will profoundly affect their future. This book contrasts different types of school settings and examines how gender and social class play out at the school level.

Drawing on a major EU-funded research project, this book examines how religious/secular beliefs are formed at school and in the family across different European countries, offering insights into key policy issues concerning the place of religion in the school system and illuminating current debates around religion and multiculturalism.

Young women and men continue to take different subjects within second-level education. Gender differences are especially marked in the take-up of the three technological subjects, Materials Technology (Wood), Metalwork and Technical Graphics. The sub

Examines the distribution of pay differentials and other rewards among recent male and female graduates.

Many factors influence the effectiveness of a school, including: its social context; school management and staffing; school organization and class allocation or streaming; disciplinary climate; academic emphasis; and pupil-teacher interaction and involvement. This research study examines the question of whether there are significant differences between second-level schools in Ireland, in terms of exam performance, attendance and personal development, amongst other issues. The book focuses on the strength of the school effect in influencing pupil outcomes, and concludes with a number of policy recommendations.

Addresses issues regarding the prevalence of employment among Irish school students.