The anatomy of an education system: why the middle tier matters

STiR Education

A new publication shows how strengthening the “missing middle” can help education systems better meet local needs. The anatomy of an education system is complex, comprising many levels, roles, and responsibilities. Among these, the middle or intermediate tier is gaining increasing attention for its vital role in shaping locally relevant solutions and driving sustainable changes […]

Leveraging the potential of the middle tier to improve education outcomes

The middle tier connects schools and central systems, translating policy into practice and supporting education reform. This paper outlines key functions, capacity gaps, and a new assessment framework to help governments strengthen the middle tier—unlocking its potential to improve teaching, equity, and learning outcomes across education systems.

A missing link for inclusive education

This paper explores the experiences of teachers with disabilities working in mainstream classrooms across low- and middle-income countries. It highlights the need for inclusive policies, accessible infrastructure, and better data, drawing on teachers’ voices to offer practical recommendations that promote equity and diversity in the education workforce.