Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in this book. The book attempts to contribute to an understanding and analysis of the changing pattern of power and decision-making in education, and in particular the relations between the centre and the locality. It describes the distinctive pattern of government by partnership in education since the Second World War. The book reviews the major scenarios for resolving the current dilemmas in the government of education. The first argues that education should become more overtly a national service: the strains in the partnership can be resolved by concentrating power at the centre. The second proposes a community service which would decentralize decision-taking to schools and their local communities. A third scenario argues for strengthening of the local authority. The book evaluates these scenarios before promoting own reconstruction of the government of education.