School community partnerships

Schools do not exist in isolation. They are based in communities and are there to serve those communities.  Some larger schools may serve more than one identifiable community and they therefore need to be aware of any differences in approach that are necessary for each community.

Schools are also part of a network of statutory and voluntary organisations that provide services and support to communities. Parents can encourage or build on links between the school and the local community. The starting point, as always, is what is important for this school. Schools may already involve some people from the community working in the school alongside parents.

Community venues can often be good places to make contact with parents who may lack confidence in approaching the school or getting involved there. For some parents, school can be rather daunting and it is important to meet people where they feel most comfortable.

Parent Councils are well placed to make links with other agencies. In particular, they are encouraged to develop links with pre-school and further/higher education establishments to ensure continuity of education for children and young people.

Schools and youth work

To offer young people the widest range of choices and chances through learning partnerships, fundamental changes in education are required. These must be focused firmly on the needs and aspirations of young people. Responsibility for these changes extends beyond schools and involves all those working with children and young people in Scotland.

Learning providers must work in partnership to maximise their contributions to preparing young people for their futures and the highest possible levels of achievement. They need to be familiar with the experiences and outcomes from Curriculum for Excellence development as 'Curriculum for Excellence: Building the Curriculum 3' (Scottish Government, 2008) recognises that the curriculum contains all the experiences planned for young people throughout their education 'wherever they are being educated'.

These learning partnerships will help equip young people with the knowledge and skills for learning, life and work that they require to take their place in modern society and contribute to a modern Scotland.