Politics of Primary Education

The importance of primary education is being slowly, if grudgingly, recognized.

This book focuses on why and how this has come about and the crucial developments over the last few years.Written by leading practitioners and experts, the chapters analyze the most significant issues that have made an impact on primary education - the effects of pre-school and early childhood education, the influence of government policies, teaching styles, the uses and abuses of assessment, governors and management styles, the role of the LEAs, the changing curriculum, the changes that primary schools have made and should make, and all the research evidence that enhances our understanding.

The book also gives a voice to the children and explores their experience of primary schools as well as giving a coherent overview of the issues that affect them.

This book is essential reading for all those involved in, and concerned with, primary education, from teachers themselves to policy makers.

It aims to give, lucidly and authoritatively, ideas and evidence to enhance the professional development of teachers and students and the understanding of others outside the schools, from parents to inspectors.