Implementing Reforms in a Centralised Education System: The case of Israeli education

The aim of this paper is to identify the mechanisms which have constrained the implementation of educational reform in a centralised education system. The case study relates to the 1968 educational reform in Israel. Analysis of the relevant documents reveals that even in a centralised education system decision-makers have to look at reform implementation not just as an administrative follow-up on policy, but in order to be able to mobilise an effective response to client needs and to unite political interest and pressure groups in support of the reform to ensure its successful implementation.