Education has always been seen as a fundamentally optimistic human endeavour
characterised by aspirations for progress and betterment. It is understood by
many to be a means of overcoming handicaps, achieving greater equality and
acquiring wealth and social status. Education is perceived as a place where
children can develop according to their unique needs and potential. It is also
perceived as one of the best means of achieving greater social equality. Many
would say that the purpose of education should be to develop every individual to
their natural abilities allow. Few would argue that any education system
accomplishes this goal perfectly. Some take a particularly negative view,
arguing