This module invites students to explore educational theory and policy through the lenses of history, philosophy and sociology. It also examines the nature of educational research and enquiry, and the place of social science within this. The module is based on key texts in the development of these disciplines, texts that have provided the foundations of educational ideas. These are examined critically in relation to their influence on, and importance for, contemporary policy and practice. In this way the module takes up questions of equality and social justice in education, encouraging students to consider these through a range of perspectives and in relation to landmarks in the development of thought. The intersection of debates concerning social justice in education with questions concerning the person, society, and the nature of knowledge is elaborated in relation to such key concepts as citizenship, diversity, hegemony, authenticity, inclusion, liberalism, power, the state, subjectivity, and the relation of language to thought. Students are invited to consider the purchase of these concepts in making sense of educational policy and practice, with reference to a range of formal and informal educational sites, and local and national contexts. A team of contributors will teach through a combination of lectures and group discussion. Weekly online lectures are provided, and these are to be viewed prior to the week’s session. Each week’s Zoom session will be given mostly to discussion of the online lecture and related readings. Students will have the chance to assess the different insights offered by particular perspectives, to explore the compatibilities and tensions in and across disciplines, and to consider the contribution offered by inter-disciplinary approaches.