Schools and communities fit for purpose

Abstract

This chapter discusses how changing relationships of schools and communities may facilitate the expansive learning advocated by Johanna Wyn. Both schools and communities are shaped by social change, structured inequalities and policy; and reciprocally influence young people’s lives in and out of school. Both need to be responsive and adaptable in the pursuit of inclusive education and a sustainable society. Drawing on recent scholarship on school-community engagement, I argue that a community development approach reorients schools and communities as fit for purpose. Learning through and as community development provides opportunities for young people’s decision making, identity work and social action toward improving the quality of life in and out of school.