In 1992 two school choice reforms were implemented, allowing the opening of private independent schools and also giving pupils the right to choose between private and public schools. Rules for teacher qualification assessments were abolished in 1993, and a new curriculum and a new grading system were implemented in 1994. It was thought that if decisions were taken locally, schools would more easily adapt to the individual needs of pupils. Furthermore it was envisaged that schools would be better adapted to their local context when school staff were given increased discretion and that communication and influence of parents and other local stakeholders would improve when decisions were taken locally. The cost per pupil dropped as a consequence of a higher number of pupils per teacher.