BSF and the Extended Schools scheme provides a unique opportunity for localities to re-examine their conceptions of what a school could be. Through our project we are aiming to understand how communities can develop a wider vision for learning. How can the consultation process move people beyond considering just physical building design, to consider what they want as a wider learning communities, incorporating health, social enterprise, adult education or other local priorities. In short, how do we encourage communities to think of BSF as a possibility for new community space, not just a new school structure?

The project will be based on an action learning process, informed by research and case studies. We intend to talk to stakeholder groups from schools currently participating in BSF to understand their experience of community and stakeholder engagement to date. Based on our learning from these conversations, and a detailed examination of case studies and current literature, we will create guidance material for the NCSL BSF training programme to disseminate this learning to BSF teams nationally.

For further information, please contact faizal.farook@demos.co.uk.