Definition of comprehensive school

The term "comprehensive school" emerged in the post-war era in the United Kingdom as part of a broader educational reform movement. These reforms aimed to provide equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of their background or ability levels. In the past, the British education system was structured with a clear distinction between grammar schools, which catered to academically high-achieving students, and secondary modern schools that served students deemed less academically gifted. This rigid system led to social and economic inequality, as the opportunities available to students varied greatly based on their school placement. The concept of comprehensive schools, which first gained popularity in the 1960s, challenged this traditional system. Comprehensive schools were designed to be inclusive institutions that catered to the diverse needs of all students within a single institution. This inclusive education approach provided access to a wider range of subjects and opportunities, ensuring that every student could develop their individual talents and progress at their own pace. In summary, the term "comprehensive school" refers to a type of secondary education institution that provides education to all students, regardless of their academic ability, in order to promote social justice, educational equity, and lifelong learning opportunities for all.