Summary - this section describes how an Education Improvement Partnership (EIP) can provide more integrated childcare and extended services as one of several potential functions, which also include raising attaiment; improving behaviour and attendance; and workforce reform.   

Many existing partnerships are now working to provide a much more comprehensive service to children, young people and parents. An integrated approach to children's services means that social care, education and childcare services must be brought together in a seamless way to ensure children's safety and well-being. And by drawing together a diverse range of providers – some from the private, voluntary or community sector, as well as public health and social care agencies – partnerships can also offer greater choice and flexibility of services around childcare and support for parents, as well as wider opportunities for outside school activities, advice and guidance for young people.  

Education Improvement Partnerships will provide a way to bring together local providers from all sectors around a defined community of children and young people, joining up services in a way which more effectively addresses the specific needs of each individual and their family.  

Working together in Education Improvement Partnerships, schools and colleges will build on the services and activities already offered by some extended schools. They might collaborate with local partners from health and social care services in setting up 'one-stop shops' offering advisory and support services. Some partnerships are already working on this and have set up teenage information and advice centres (TICTACS) on school sites, where a range of professionals including teachers, counsellors and health professionals, offer guidance and support on issues ranging from sexual health and relationships to finance and careers. EIPs could also co-ordinate provision of after school sport, music or art activities with local community organisations, or join up with local branches of organisations such as Community Service Volunteers to offer community volunteering opportunities.

Publication Date: May 2005

Last Updated: July 2006