This book begins with an analysis of the gradual extension of educational opportunities for women since the nineteenth century, with special attention given to the period since 1944. There is careful exploration of the interaction between the family and the school, and an examination of their role as institutions which help to maintain the existing class relations, sexual division of labour and ideology of a capitalist society. Rosemary Deem also looks at how these institutions differentiate the socialization, culture and education of girls from that of boys, and considers the implications of the Sex Discrimination Act and the Equal Opportunities Commission for education.