Abstract
I.Q. scores taken at sixteen years were significantly related to external examination results in both spina bifida and control groups. An I.Q. of 110 or more was associated with a high probability of GCE passes and an I.Q. under 90 with no passes. Three interrelated factors were responsible for poor academic achievement. These were: special school attendance shunt insertion, and severe physical handicap Only 6% of the aggressively treated children in this study are likely to enter higher education; those leaving school without qualifications and a physical handicap are much more likely to be unemployed.