Originally published in 1986. This book discusses the effects that the changing environment of the time had and analyses problems and initiatives that were developing within key policy sectors. Three major alternative strategies for resolving dilemmas in the government of education are then reviewed.

Foreword. Introduction Stewart Ranson and John Tomlinson Part 1: Strains Among the Education Partners 1. Parliament Chris Price 2. The Department of Education and Science Edward Simpson 3. The Local Authority Associations Jack Springett 4. The County LEA Geoffrey Morris 5. The Metropolitan LEA William Stubbs 6. The Teachers John Sayer 7. The Inspectors Norman Thomas 8. The Listening School: Parents and the Public Joan Sallis 9. The MSC Geoffrey Holland Part 2: Analysing Developments in Policy Sectors 10. Curriculum and Assessment Denis Lawton 11. Teacher Professionalism and Professionalization John Eggleston 12. Managing Contraction Kieron Walsh 13. Finance of Education Tony Travers Part 3: Scenarios for the Government of Education 14. A National Service: Strengthening the Centre I Maurice Peston 15. A National Service: Strengthening the Centre II Barry Taylor 16. A Community Service: Strengthening the Institution I David Hargreaves 17. A Community Service: Strengthening the Institution II Tim Brighouse 18. A Local Service: Strengthening the LEA John Stewart Part 4: Conclusions 19. An Alternative View of Education and Society Stewart Ranson and John Tomlinson 20. Government for a Learning Society Stewart Ranson 21. The Education System Restructured John Tomlinson