Published in 1993, this book considers the needs of older teenage students and the various forms of provision made for them. The 16-19 sector of education is a transition stage for students and a system in transition for educators. At a time of rapid change the author assesses the significance of current trends and recent legislation for managers, teachers and lecturers in schools and colleges catering for this age group.　

Eric Macfarlane argues that the 16-19 sector provides both a microcosm and intensification of the tensions, divisions and conflicting aims and objectives present throughout the education system as a whole. He explores the differences that exist between the academic and vocational routes to qualification, between the comprehensive, selective and independent systems and between ‘traditional’ and ‘progressive’ approaches to the learning process. The ideologies and policies that have produced the present system are traced and the case for reform examined. Different management tasks in 16-19 education are considered, with emphasis on current changes in strategies and structures.　

The book highlights the distinctive features of the various types of institution that provide for students aged 16-19 and the ways in which these distinctions are becoming blurred. The final chapters consider the future of 16-19 provision and the particular impact of the 1992 Further and Higher Education Act.