ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the relationship between children and the market which has developed following the implementation of the Education Reform Act 1988. It is particularly concerned with the differing powers of consumers to effect the choices envisaged by the education reforms. For example, Choice and Diversity (DFE, 1992) is clear about the anticipated outcomes for consumers:
By the next century we will have achieved a system characterised not by uniformity but by choice, underpinned by the spread of grant maintained schools. There will be a rich array of schools and colleges, all teaching the National Curriculum and playing to their strengths, allowing parents to choose the school best suited to their children's needs, and all enjoying parity of esteem. Our aim is a single tier of excellence.
