Better Together
Through Partnerships

At Shoreline Community Middle School in Victoria, a local seniors’ garden club works together with the school. Student volunteers help members set up for club meetings and plant shows. The members in turn help students with their school garden, teaching them to care for plants and the soil.

The community partnership is built on respect—respect for seniors and respect for members of a diverse community. The satisfaction that comes from seeing food grow through their own efforts is priceless, both for the students and their mentors.

Neighbourhood Learning Centres are for Schools


NEIGHBOURHOOD LEARNING CENTRES makes sense for students, families, communities and schools. Learning today goes beyond the classroom. Knowledge is discovered in new ways, and skills are developed by a variety of experiences. But personal connection still matters. By opening their doors and welcoming the community, Neighbourhood Learning Centres promote rich learning environments and connect students with the world around them. These settings encourage resiliency and allow communities to flourish.

Growing Together with Partners
Neighbourhood Learning Centres grow through community engagement and partnerships. Many begin by offering the use of available space and extending hours of operation for groups to gather and pursue activities. Others go further and enter into joint-use agreements with organizations to offer community programs and services. However one is developed, NLCs draw school and community closer, for the benefit of students and the neighbourhood at large.

How is a Neighbourhood Learning Centre developed?
Your neighbourhood school may already have the basic elements of a Neighbourhood Learning Centre. To help it reach its full potential, become involved with its planning, take part in consultations and share your vision with others. Each NLC is unique, and develops according to the character and aspirations of the community it serves.

Read Why Neighbourhood Learning Centres are for School Districts>>

Resources for Schools