The Educational Reform Act (ERA) of 1988 reflects the most comprehensive restructuring of education in Britain in this century. This paper discusses the implementation of the National curriculum, the innovation at the heart of the ERA. The first part of the paper offers the views of educational commentators on changes resulting from this law. Commentators believe that: (1) the ERA serves the goal of reducing the power of local government in favor of increased central control; (2) the National Curriculum was designed without the benefit of professional educational expertise; and (3) the ERA has altered the roles of teachers and head teachers. The second part of the paper discusses the views of teachers from four schools in different parts of England on the effect of the new policies on schools and teachers' professional lives. One theme raised by teachers concerns the school-level response to the National Curriculum. Some positive advantages of communication and solidarity among staff are seen. A second theme concerns changes in classroom teaching. Teachers feel that curriculum integration is threatened. Teachers are also concerned about the effect of the National Curriculum on class size, scheduling, planning, and standard assessment. A third theme concerns increased professional demands on teachers. A reference list of 18 items is provided. (BC)