The LEA and the administration of special needs education: views from the literature

Summary

The discussion is based upon different publications regarding the role of local education authorities (LEAs) in the administration of special needs education in the context of the quasi‐market in education, heralded by the 1988 Education Reform Act. The publications derive from analysis and from empirical research. Views concerning LEAs differ quite widely and three broad positions can be identified: first, a welcome for the reduction in LEAs’ powers because of their pathological bureaucratic tendencies; secondly, an advocacy of the LEA as an enabler and pioneer; and thirdly, the outcome of the LEA as the caretaker of residual resources. Similarly, the impact of the quasi‐market is variously conceived as a helpful benefactor, a harmful instrument of fragmentation and a force in opposition to LEAs.

Keywords:

• special needs education
• quasi‐market
• LEAs’ role