Abstract
In this paper some of the new educational trends and significant features of governing schools in England are considered against the background of the history of school government. Forty-four years on from the Education Act 1944, theory and actual practice with regard to school government varied throughout this country. The Taylor Report (1977) reviewed the arrangements for the government of maintained schools in England and Wales. Change in the composition of governing bodies has increased the propotion of parents, along with teachers and other community representatives, who share the duties of governance with the once-dominant political nominees. After ten years passed, Baker's Education Reform Bill to amend the law relating to education was presented to the Parliament in late November 1987. The roles and functions of governing bodies will be changed and there may be times when governors need to express disquiet over something unless relationships with head and staff are good. The Government's determination to cut the education authorities down to size has given governors a new significance as guardians of the public interest in education. Governors will be first in line to supervise Mr. Baker's national curriculum and have important new responsibilities for the appointment of head and staff, and for the financial delegation to school. I discussed this new situation in terms of partnership and professionalism.
