Everyone has been to school so everyone has an opinion: Why memories of school matter

The history of schools and schooling, indeed of education, is rarely discussed when considering the oft-overlooked question of "What is the purpose of schools?". Similarly, when considering the role of schools, many viewpoints provided are overly glowing, and tend to overlook the many shortcomings and failings of this system. Here, these issues are brought to the fore, so that those engaged in the practice of education can look at an unvarnished view of the system of which they are a part.

The role of the media within the narrowing of discourse is outlined, with a clear link to the inclusion and promotion of parents as activists and agential actors within this process. Each of these forces and histories is important for those within education to consider, noting the historical relevance of each, and noting the manner in which they impact upon present day action.