Since the 60s there has been a remarkable improvement in education standards in England, brought about above all by the comprehensives. But the limits to that improvement have generated two opposing schools of thought about the way forward. One, led by the government, has argued for an injection of competition through the introduction of new types of school and the fostering of parent choice.The other, the supporters of comprehensives, has argued for measures to produce more balanced intakes coupled with improved investment. I agree that this is a vital part of the solution but it’s not enough.What is also required is a radical change in our conception of schooling, whilst retaining the essence of the comprehensive: the commitment to all ability intakes and the building of a common culture.