Boarding School Admission - Ritual acts of distinctive individuation?

The following findings are the result of a research project analysing boarding school admission. Using qualitative document analysis, interviews with both headmasters and boarding school students, and by participatory observation, the formal organisation of the admission process and ritual practices therein are analysed. In addition, patterns of legitimisation by the selecting personnel are reconstructed. Following Bourdieu, it is examined to what extent boarding school admission can be understood as an "act of consecration". Rituals with differing functions can thereby be reconstructed.