Many schools are opening up facilities such as information and communications technology (ICT) suites and sports and arts facilities to the wider community. They are also offering space – such as their school halls – and running further education and vocational classes and adult learning programmes.  

Providing community access

Schools with suitable facilities, or the capacity to offer learning opportunities to the wider community, will need to assess existing provision and consult parents and carers, staff and the local community about their needs before deciding which facilities to make available for community use.

Why offer community access?

Opening up school facilities is one way a school can fulfil its obligation to promote community cohesion. Local businesses can benefit from affordable conference or ICT facilities, and the well-being of the community can be improved by making sports centres accessible to all.

Community access also helps schools ensure that they are making full use of their facilities and generating additional income.