serving the needs of the economy- schools teach the skills and knowledge needed in the world of work. There is a strong connection between the structure and success of the economy and the skills acquired in education.

social mobility-- schools provide opportunities and qualifications that allow students to achieve to achieve higher positions in society.

social cohesion- the norms and values taught in school reflect the norms and values of the culture and give people identity e.g 'britishness'

Social control- schools act as an agent of social control and enforce rules and authority.

secondary socialisation- schools play a huge role in teaching the norms and values of society.

The education system may not always be equal, working class children may not have the same opportunities as middle class children.

It has also been suggested that schools should be abolished due to their compulsory nature hindering the learning process. Illich (1973) argued schools stifle creativity this is known as de-schooling.

as society may consist of various groups with different or conflicting interests, the education system cannot transmit all these views.

Ofsted also inspect schools and produce publicly available reports on each school.

adavantages of testing: clear indication of the students achievements

drive up standards

provides data for league tables which can then give an indication of the schools success

disadvantages of testing; unnecessary stress and worry

not everyone learns in he same way

independent schools set their own curriculum and admission policies. They are funded by parent fees and investments. most students however will take national exams ensuring that qualifications are consistent and recognised.

mostly run in the same way as a state school however the faith status is shown through the religious education curriculum, admission policies and staff policies.