The System of Local Management of Schools in the UK -- Achieving an Optimal Balance of Centralization and Decentralization in Education

This article draws from UK experience where there have been changes in the balance of centralization and decentralization in efforts to enhance the quality of education. Particular attention is given to school autonomy (local management of schools), school choice and the private role in state education management. Successful experience is analysed, guidelines are formulated to assist those seeking to introduce such strategies. Further research areas are identified. The context for centralization and decentralization is shaped by patterns of governance. In the UK, where the national government has the authority to make policies in education, decentralization has referred to a shift in authority from national government to schools. This article describes the current reform strategies from centralization to decentralization as ‘experimenting with school choice and greater autonomy to build all students’ enthusiasm for learning, as well as standardization and school accountability to ensure all students’ mastery of core content’.