They believe that outside specialists have professional knowledge, considerable credibility with pupils, provide additional motivation and make young people aware that the school places a high value on the topic being covered. Successful collaboration depends on identifying pupils' needs which cannot be fully met by school staff and it is here that parents also have a role in making their priorities known. Parents and teachers working together could identify agencies whose expertise fits the pupils' needs. Most importantly, senior management in schools must allow time for staff to plan a coherent programme jointly with the external agency. The following questions may help teachers develop more effective links with external agencies.
Pupils deserve the highest quality of education in every area of the curriculum.
Where there are professionals whose expertise can supplement the skills of the classroom teacher it seems sensible to take advantage of this. It is the responsibility of the schools and the agencies to work together for the present and future benefit of young people. SCRE Research Report 74. SCRE Research Report 44. SCRE Spotlight 41.