ISC CEO writes in Tes on benefits of cross-sector partnerships
In an article for Tes, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) Julie Robinson explains what is at the heart of independent-state school partnerships and outlines the benefits of working together.
Ms Robinson's article has marked the start of Partnerships Week, which is taking place until Friday 1 December. Partnerships Week is a dedicated point in the calendar when schools can showcase and shout about the work they do to improve outcomes for more young people.
In the piece, Ms Robinson explains that despite the financial challenges schools are facing, including the proposed policy to add VAT to school fees, those involved in partnership work "don't see it as a tick-box exercise or a nice-to-have; for them, it is an essential part of who they are and what they do". On the positive effect of partnerships for schools in both sectors, she adds: "Numerous heads have told me that partnerships would be the absolute last thing they would consider as part of cost-cutting initiatives."