Independent-State School Partnerships: An initial review of evidence and current practices

Lucas, Bill; Stoll, Louise; Greany, Toby; Tsakalaki, Anna; Nelson, Rebecca

Abstract

Over the last two decades there has been growing interest in independent-state school partnerships (ISSPs). The term is currently used to refer to arrangements between two or more schools which include at least one independent and one state school. In this review of literature and snap-shot of current practices we look at the state of the evidence. We find little evidence of the ways in which they do or do not impact on outcomes in England, not least because of a paucity of research, and an array of initiatives, collaborations and associations with no clear rationale in terms of good practices and, as yet, limited evaluation. Nevertheless, from the more robust literature of school to school partnerships in the UK and internationally, we know that there can be significant benefits for pupils, teachers, schools and wider partnerships. We also know something of the mechanisms by which such benefits are most likely to be secured. However, we recognise that ISSPs must bridge cultural divides and might have success criteria that differ from partnerships between state schools, so we also review literature on partnerships that encompass such divides. Drawing on this literature, we suggest some potential features that we might expect to see in successful ISSPs. From a survey of current practices reported by independent schools we can see growing interest in ISSPs. These partnerships generally aim to promote academic and social enrichment, enable the sharing of resources and/or foster professional learning for staff. From our brief review, we suggest a need for: * clarity about the extent and depth of engagement by both state and independent schools in ISSPs and the potential benefits to both * better understanding of the different kinds of ISSPs and how these can best be created, shared, led and evaluated * formal evaluation of the impact of ISSPs on state schools and independent schools and on their pupils, staff, parents and wider community * greater understanding about the potential wider benefits to society when state and independent schools collaborate effectively.

Citation

Lucas, B., Stoll, L., Greany, T., Tsakalaki, A., & Nelson, R. (2017). Independent-State School Partnerships: An initial review of evidence and current practices. Tony Little Centre for Innovation and Research in Learning at Eton College

• Report Type: Research Report
• Publication Date: 2017
• Deposit Date: Aug 22, 2024
• ISBN: 9780957165311
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.33030.78408
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/34634721
• Related Public URLs: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317064528_Independent-State_School_Partnerships_An_initial_review_of_evidence_and_current_practices