This book provides a unique analysis of the efforts to establish systems of self-managing schools around the world. It describes the 'Schools of the Future' program in Victoria - the largest system anywhere to have decentralized 90 percent of its budget for local management in schools. The core of this important book charts the move from dependence on a highly centralized and bureaucratized structure to one that values local decision-making, and the creation of a system of self-managing schools. The book also shows how these and similar programmes in other nations will lay the foundation for further reform. This is a facinating collaboration between a leading academic and a former government minister.