Two aspects of a national accountability based-policy are discussed. Kari Bachmann's theme is how teachers' understanding of professional autonomy changes when accountability measures are introduced, also charting how these changes relate to various tools and standards for professionalism in the teaching profession. Gjert Langfeldt charts changes in accountability policies in Norway. Using neo-institutional theory, accountability policies are seen as a trade-off between different actors. The data presented are an analysis of the initiatives of the ministry combined with an analysis of findings on the municipal level's adaptation to accountability measures. Combining the two sources Langfeldt analyses how accountability policies affect relations of power in the educational field.Bachmann presents longitudinal data from a repeated measures survey with national representativity. Langfeldt analyses national steering documents, interviews relevant actors in the field, and formal evaluations of the tools of accountability are reviewed. Across change of government the national policies are compared to the international obligations Norway must endorse.The combined findings of the research reported is to document how national accountability policies have repercussions on the municipal level and at school level. The consequences are described as practical, programmatical and politicalLangfeldt, G. " Equity and Governance" Paper presented at ECER 2006 Langfeldt, G. (in press) "Governing Education" Cappelen Akademiske, Oslo Sivesind, Bachmann et al. "Evaluation and education. How schooling is possible" (Forthcoming)