This fascinating study provides a detailed and accessible discussion of the radical changes in Irish educational policy between 1957-72, when it was transformed out of all recognition within a single decade. Making use of new archival sources and interviews with key participants, Walsh gives a balanced and original analysis of the forces making for change in Irish education and the obstacles they encountered. The book makes a significant original contribution to our knowledge of Irish education.

The book will be of interest to scholars of modern Irish history, politics and public policy. It is essential reading for students of Irish education and of history of education more generally; it will also be invaluable to those with a professional or academic interest in Irish education.