This collection draws together contributions from leading researchers and participants to explore a major reform process of the state and education system in particular. The shift from welfare-based provision of public services to the quasi-market with private delivery and philanthropic investment is an issue that needs a thorough examination through evidence and rigorous argument. This book seeks to do this by not only charting events and providing detailed examination about what is happening but also by locating these developments within a contemporary political and social analytical framework. Topics covered include: * the legal and political process of establishing Academies * the working and impact of Academies using a range of data and perspectives * the debates and issues regarding this major reform, with comparative perspectives. The State and Education Policy shows how the Academies Programme in England is an important site for examining the growth of neoliberal ideas and practices in the framing and delivery of public services such as education.