In this introduction to educational policy, practice and professionalism, the authors focus first on providing an historical overview of English policy from the state’s first interventions in education through to Thatcherism and the election of the Blair government. Chapters then explore the key contemporary policies of recent times and offer a critique on how they have worked in practice, with reference to the hysteria that often surrounds education policy. An important theme is media representation of educational matters and the effects this has on the teaching profession. Commentaries and case studies are presented throughout, providing an accessible link to what it was really like to learn, teach and live at the time the policy was in place.This new edition now includes:This is essential reading for all undergraduate students studying education policy and practice.