Independent/State School Partnerships: Building Bridges
The independent and state sectors have much to offer one another and the
Government wishes to encourage the sharing of experience and good practice in a
two-way process for the mutual benefit of both sectors. The
Independent/State School Partnerships Scheme was set up to encourage
collaborative working between independent and maintained schools. It is a
valuable way of developing cross-sector relationships, raising educational
standards, widening educational opportunities and promoting social
inclusion.
In the first nine years of the scheme more than 330 projects have received joint funding of around £10 million. As well as funding general projects, specific funding has been allocated for partnerships focusing on sport, including identification and support for talented pupils in sport, citizenship and music. The 2007-08 to 2010-11 scheme has focused on increasing attainment in, and take-up of, science, maths and modern foreign languages at GCSE, A level and university level, particularly from communities where aspirations are low.
Details of the partnerships from the last two funding rounds can be found here.
Latest news
The tenth funding round was announced on 14 November 2007. The closing date for expressions of interest was 14 December 2007 and the successful partnerships were announced in May 2008.
Ministers have not yet announced funding for a further
ISSP bidding round, or what the priorities for a future round of the scheme may
be. Any announcements will be made after the National Council for
Educational Excellence (NCEE) report in October. To be kept informed of any
future ISSP bidding rounds, you can email the
ISSP and you will then be contacted with details.
Last updated: 18 September 2008
