Summary - there are a number of existing models of partnership working. This section looks at the nature of Excellence in Cities partnerships, which may in time evolve to become Education Improvement Partnerships. 

Excellence in Cities (EiC) is a targeted programme to raise standards in schools in deprived areas. The programme is delivered locally by schools working in partnership with their local authorities. It both increases diversity of provision for pupils and encourages schools to work together to raise standards, improve behaviour and reduce exclusions by working collaboratively. Originally aimed at secondary schools, the programme now includes primary schools.

EiC secondary schools, and other schools facing challenging circumstances now also receive Leadership Incentive Grant (LIG), to ensure that their leadership teams are able to transform the delivery of education. LIG focuses on collaboration between schools in order to significantly strengthen leadership, enhance learning and teaching, accelerate improvement in standards and establish a culture of high expectations. In many areas, wider, collaborative approaches have developed from LIG work, and have now become established in their own right. In EiC areas, LIG work is delivered under the overall management of the EiC partnership, along with Behaviour Improvement Plans (BIPs) which are delivered through small groups of schools - primary and secondary - within EiC partnerships.

Publication Date: May 2005

Last updated: July 2006