Abstract:
This paper reports the findings of a research project funded by the: N.S.W. Education Commission into the role of the Central Schools in Rural N.S.W. The study locates the Central School in relation to the overall provision of secondary education in rural areas, This paper presents the central school from the perspective of parents, teachers, principals and students and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of this form of educational provision. A number of policy issues are discussed.