Can there be an alternative to the centralized curriculum in England?

Schools and teachers in England have found themselves coerced into a situation where high-stakes testing, scrutiny of `performance' and the generation of data for competitive league tables have dominated the educational experience of young people. There is a growing recognition from all quarters that this model is failing and that alternative — and more creative — approaches are needed. The article examines whether there is sufficient professional confidence and autonomy to challenge the current hegemonic position.