Published in 1986 this book considers how relationships within the education system are growing more complicated as staff, pupils and parents are increasingly aware of their legal rights and willing to assert them. It discusses possibilities for conflict such as growing teacher militancy and an emphasis on staff development and appraisal causing tension. The book also considers moves towards accountability and the increasing involvement of governors and teachers presenting further sources of conflict. Finally, it looks as truancy and other pupil difficulties involving legal issues.

Teachers, headmasters, and other concerned parties are frequently unaware of the precise nature of their rights and responsibilities. However, underlying and regulating all educational activities is educational law as set out in various Acts of Parliament. This book provides a comprehensive overview of educational law from 1986 and discusses how it relates to controversies in education. It covers all aspects of the topic including the administrative arrangements, the independent sector, multiracial education and teachers’ contractual obligations.