Politicians and Education Policy Why It Matters for Whole System Improvement

Based on an in-depth case study, this book reveals how politicians, as policy makers, conceptualise, develop and initiate large-scale education system reform and why it matters for school improvement.Governments all over the world are spending increasing time, money and effort on improving school systems but the evidence suggests that few of them are getting it right. There is much research devoted to educational strategies, policies, reform initiatives and outcomes. However, what is often missing is a generally-agreed set of policies or principles which Ministers can draw on as a guiding framework. This book shows how political context impacts the development of education policy and reveals the critical and dynamic relationship between politics, policy and process. This book gives new insights into politicians as leaders in large-scale education system reform, distils lessons and identifies a practical strategic framework. It offers principals, teachers and school communities greater control over school decision making for to decide what is in the best interests of their students and their schools.Offering unique “insider” insights from an Education Minister, their staff, public servants and key stakeholders, this book is written for all key stakeholders involved in school improvement, as well as students of educational leadership and policy.