This research examined migrant children education (MCE) policies implemented in China since the late 1990s. The empirical study in Beijing demonstrated that MCE policies pushed public schools to enrol migrant children, but the policy objective of educational equality has not been fully realised. The policy implementers' capabilities and motivation did not meet expectations. The policy design and its implementing environment are also reflected upon. It was found that MCE policy objectives were legitimate and ambitious, but the policy design was vague. The central government did not provide support or pressure for policy implementation, thus the policy design was not favourable for effective implementation. Under the current political system, local governments have certain autonomy to decide the extent to which MCE policies are implemented; this is done in accordance with reciprocity between central and local government.