Yes let's look at Sweden. The Conservatives have been going on about Sweden for a long time, but this is only because they can see elements which they can exploit and justify them on the basis that the education in Sweden is a successful system. Unfortunately they are not actually prepared to back this up with real policy.
The main difference between our two systems is that Sweden values education more. Pupil premiums are higher and classes smaller, all brought about by higher taxation and more of this money going to education. They value it so much that university fees are free, you know, free the opposite from this government's plans.
Additionally their approach is far more egalitarian with most pupils attending comprehensive schools and none of this old fashioned 2tier/grammar school system. Yes 'free schools' exist but are a way of opting for private education but still receiving your premium from the state. This is what the Conservatives like! Basically they don't think it's fair that people that go to private schools should pay twice. Of course very little will change other than those with money will have more. Parents who can't afford to top up their vouchers will be in exactly the same position, but probably stuck with schools with PFI arrangements, "today children maths is brought to you by Tesco".
And just to let you know how it works in the government, you know as DC keeps telling us about 'fairness'. This lady is doing the advising!!!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2010/oct/27/michael-gove-adviser-free-schools-contract