The authors review national trends and developments since the issue was first seriously raised by the Plowden Report in 1967. Then focusing on one urban primary school (Redlands Primary School, Reading), they describe the changes which have taken place over a seven-year period, from the perspective of teachers, parents, and children. The book includes a personal account by Angela Redfern (formerly Deputy Head at Redlands) of what it has been like to be a teacher during this period of change, and telling comments from both parents and children on all aspects of involvement in school.
Partnership with parents emerges as a course of action which reaps benefits for all concerned, and the authors stress that the developments taking place in schools like Redland are important for all schools, irrespective of their social class or ethnic composition.