What are area-based education partnerships?

Area‑based education partnerships are school‑led, place‑based collaborations that bring together schools and colleges across a local area to take collective responsibility for improving outcomes for children and young people. Rooted in their communities, these partnerships connect different types of schools, bridge organisational boundaries and act as a driver for inclusive improvement through collaboration, shared learning and innovation. By working closely with local authorities and wider services, area‑based partnerships strengthen local education systems and ensure that place, belonging and opportunity remain central to school improvement.

Education partnerships:

• Take responsibility for the quality of education in a local area and help to drive improvements in outcomes for children and young people
• Act as an engine of improvement locally, brokering connections and initiatives across schools, and stimulating innovation
• Bridge the divide between different types of schools
• Provide a framework to allow schools to work together