A nationwide strategy to strengthen school partnerships could transform public perceptions of independent education, a former leading headteacher is expected to say next week.
Dr Joe Spence – CEO of the  (SPA) and former Master of Dulwich College – will make his case to admissions, marketing, and communications professionals at the  from May 12 to 13.
A press release previewing Dr Spence’s speech said he would “outline how those leading admissions, marketing, and communications in schools can play a key role in advancing the partnerships agenda, helping the SPA develop a strategy that fosters impactful, sustainable collaboration between independent and maintained schools”.
During his conference address, Dr Spence will also highlight the increasingly vital role of professional staff dedicated to partnership work.
Alongside those in admissions, marketing, communications, development, and enterprise, they can form external relations teams to strengthen independent school reputations among the wider public, he will argue.Â
Reflecting on his experience shaping independent school engagement over the past 30 years, Dr Spence will discuss the evolving relationship between heads and those in admissions and marketing roles.
He will say: “It’s been heartening to see how school leaders have come to better appreciate the professionalisation of admissions, marketing, and communications work in schools.
“When I began teaching in the mid-1980s, marketing was seen as a necessary evil. Now, school leaders recognise how valuable it is to articulate what their schools stand for – not just to current and prospective parents, but also to alumni, staff, pupils, and the wider community. These areas have become the lifeblood of independent education.”
“The professionalisation of the partnership brief is the next stage in this evolution. My work leading the School Partnerships Alliance is about celebrating those in schools who champion a collaborative approach to education. Such an approach is essential if the independent sector is to thrive despite political and social challenges.
“The collaboration of professionals in admissions, marketing, communications, development, enterprise, and partnerships will be the foundation upon which schools build for future success.”
Dr Spence will “encourage professionals across these disciplines to work together in shaping a national partnerships strategy that both strengthens individual schools but also enhances the independent sector’s reputation”, the press release previewing his speech said.
