The book uniquely combines statistical analysis with expert opinions to provide a nuanced view beyond simple school rankings. The book explores the evolution of educational policy, from standardized testing to school accountability, and provides context with clear definitions of key terms.
It is structured in four parts, progressing from an introduction of core concepts and historical context, to a detailed analysis of current national performance data, an exploration of assessment methods, and finally, recommendations for improvement. The book's approach is objective and accessible, designed to engage a broad audience interested in understanding and improving the UK education system.