Networked Social Enterprises: A New Model of Community Schooling for Disadvantaged Neighborhoods Facing Challenging Times

• In Event: Communities, Neighborhoods, and Educational Opportunity

Abstract

This paper presents a new model of community schooling in disadvantaged neighborhoods which reconceptualizes how schools can contribute to the well-being of the neighborhoods they serve. This is underpinned by a social-ecological perspective on educational disadvantage and draws on concepts of networked governance, public values management, and relational power. The model locates schools as networked social enterprises, acting in neighborhood interests, backed by sponsorship and extensive partnership arrangements. The model is explicated through a detailed empirical case study of one such school. In countries like the USA and England which have been particularly in thrall to neo-liberal approaches, the model identifies space for resistance from within a hostile policy environment which can allow schools to better serve disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Authors

• Kirstin Kerr, The University of Manchester

• Alan Dyson, University of Manchester

• Claire Forbes, University of Manchester