Free Schools. A good or bad idea?

Is it time for pupil power along the lines of a junior version of the rebellion in the Arab countries, namely a grass roots uprising? Alternatively as with the schisms that happen within all religions, will individualised mission statements lead to élitism? And if so is the whole process in danger of becoming fundamentalist? So far a "one-size-fits-all" system is failing to nurture uniqueness and encourage specialisation. Can the ideal education system ever be achieved by politicians allowing more personal freedoms?

All creative comments welcomed.