What is the LEA For? An analysis of the functions and roles of the local education authority
01 July 2000
The perspective of this topical study is the law of education in England and Wales (including the development of divergences between statutory provisions within the jurisdiction).
The legalities are crucial: LEAs are creatures of statute, operating, along with the rest of local government, within the doctrine of vires. That is why the authors have started from the Education Acts and other stature law and also the statutory instruments from which so many of the requirements imposed upon LEAs depend. Case law is also examined in some detail.
The book is for: LEA education and legal officers and other senior managers; councillors; students of education and local government; headteachers; governors; teachers; inspectors; national politicians and administrators - anyone, in short, interested in answers to the question "What is the LEA for?"
Principal areas covered in depth are: educational planning, the curriculum, the LEA's duties in respect of standards of schooling, what is meant by "maintaining" schools, special educational needs, inclusion, lifelong learning, and accountability and challenge. The analysis also covers the collection and dissemination of information, early years, admissions, structures, governance, the youth service, careers, juvenile employment and work experience - and miscellaneous but essential support services.