This book addresses the interconnected issues of quality and accountability within the education system and provides a coherent framework within which the issues of quality and accountability can be analysed. The key focus is on the role of leadership in developing strategies in relation to quality and accountability that will enhance learning outcomes. Drawing on research evidence and addressing the most recent quality frameworks that operate in educational contexts, the authors consider: the underlying nature of what we mean by the terms quality and accountability and the ways in which these terms have been employed both nationally and globally; the central themes within this global shift towards a culture of quality and accountability; the impact of these developments on educational organisations in all phases. Key issues for professional practice in the form of suggested readings and key reflection points are included. The book will appeal to practitioners across all phases of the education system, educational leaders and managers, advisors and inspectors, and academic researchers.

Table of Contents

Section 1 -- Quality and accountability considered: the 'quality culture'  Chapter 1 -- Quality and accountability: the rise of a global phenomenon  Chapter 2 -- The concept of quality  Chapter 3 - Local management and central accountability: a very modern problem  Chapter 4 - The culture and educational organisations and the goal of quality  Section 2 - Themes in quality and accountability  Chapter 5 - Quality, accountability and permeability in education  Chapter 6 - Managing staff and resources for quality education  Chapter 7 - Leadership, quality and accountability  Section 3 - The impact of the quality culture: quality, accountability and professionalism in education  Chapter 8 - Leadership and external inspection  Chapter 9 - Internal evaluation and review  Chapter 10 - Beyond quality and accountability

Author Biography

University of Manchester, UK University of Birmingham, UK