International and Comparative Education offers detailed and wide-ranging illustrations of the ways in which comparison can illuminate our understanding of contemporary education systems by exploring issues in relation to specific educational sectors, from early-years and primary schooling, through to further, adult and higher education. Key areas and debates examined include: O Alternative education provision O Early-years pedagogy and training O Spiritual, moral, social and cultural development in primary schooling O Work-related learning in secondary schools O The world of private tutoring O Economic austerity and further education O Apprenticeships and vocational education O Adult education and training O Higher education in a globalised world O Teacher training and international rankings. Drawing on these wide-ranging themes across a number of national contexts to provoke critical thinking and reflection, each chapter includes discussion points and further reading, providing a valuable resource for all Education Studies students.