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9781032230191

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'How policy is made is one of the questions I am still asked and I am never sure that I give a satisfactory answer. It is a neither science or art but a combination of relationships and influences. Loic Menzies captures this complexity and explores it in a way that will be both comprehensible and recognisable to readers. It is a fast-moving and engaging account of the interface between education and politics. As such, it will enlighten as well as entertain. Anything that improves our understanding of how policy is made, contributes greatly to education and indeed to democracy. 'How Policy Happens' does just that .' - Baroness Estelle Morris of Yardley, Former Secretary of State for Education 'Loic Menzies offers a fascinating insider’s account of policymaking aided by a wealth of references to policy science concepts. Menzies has the unusual ability to use a variety of policy theories, real world experience, and interviews with high profile policymakers to produce new knowledge on policymaking. Menzies takes us on a truly engaging journey through UK education policy reform, providing far wider lessons for UK policy and beyond.’ – Paul Cairney, Professor of Politics and Public Policy, University of Sterling ‘The book I’d wish I’d read before becoming General Secretary! Loic pulls back the curtain to give us a glimpse behind the walls of Whitehall, into the world of ‘Realpolitik’ where the interconnected corridors of coalitions and collisions of convictions finally come together to construct policy. The truth behind the complex spiders web of a world where educational policy is created in government.’ - Pepe Di’Iasio, General Secretary, Association of School and College Leaders ‘An engaging read, full of insight into the policy process.’ - Sir Michael Barber, author of How to Run a Government ‘Loic Menzies lays bare education’s political theatre. New ministers may dream of building a Singapore on the Thames, but Menzies reminds us that the bedrock beneath Westminster will always define the skyline. Beneath the noise of slogans and soundbites, he uncovers the slow tectonic movements that truly shape policy — a rare combination of sharp analysis, empathy, and wit. Wonderful reading for anyone trying to change a system that resists being changed.’ - John Hattie, Melbourne Laureate Professor Emeritus ‘An incredibly valuable guide to how policy really gets made, taking the reader into the heart of the decision-making process, plus plenty of insight into education reforms of the past few decades.’ – Sam Freedman, author of Failed State: Why Nothing Works and How We Fix It ‘All those interested in the history and present of policymaking structures within the education field will find this book of real value. The insights into the contradictions, the vagaries of decision-making and the lack of collective memory bring alive the “Yes, Minister” world of Westminster, Whitehall and beyond.’ - Lord David Blunkett, Former Secretary of State for Education

Author Information

Loic Menzies is an education and policy specialist who has spent over ten years at the heart of education policy, working closely with ministerial advisors and civil servants to provide evidence‑informed advice. He is a Senior Research Associate in Jesus College Cambridge’s Intellectual Forum, and an Associate Fellow at the Institute for Public Policy Research. He is co‑founder and Chief Research Officer of the Centre for Education Systems, and was previously Chief Executive of the Centre for Education and Youth. He began his career as a youth worker, teacher, and teacher educator.

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