Fundamental human rights are a constitutive element of democracy and thus need to be safeguarded and upheld. Because democratic practices in schools leave indelible imprints on the youth and become imbedded in the culture and ethos of a society (eventually finding expression in the life of a nation), it is imperative to establish a human rights culture in schools and enhance democracy in the education system. Fundamentals of human rights and democracy in education: a South African perspective clarifies the interrelationship between fundamental rights, education and democracy.

While not a comprehensive text on the law and education, it does provide a solid grounding for those studying the role of the Bill of Rights, constitutional values and democracy as they relate to education, school leadership and classroom practice.

Contents include the following:

• History of democracy in education in South Africa
• Children's rights: historical development
• Limitation of rights and the tension between liberalism and democracy
• Establishing a disciplined school environment
• Freedom of expression, religion, belief and opinion
• Language policy for schools: legislative and regulatory framework
• Availability, acceptability, adaptability and accessibility of education
• Procedural fairness and natural justice

Fundamentals of human rights and democracy in education is an essential resource for educators, education leaders and administrators, members of school governing bodies and students.