Neighbourhood Learning Centre Models

Neighbourhood Learning Centre is an overarching term for schools that offer educational programs for all ages and reach out to engage their communities on a year-round basis. Many schools across the province can be described as Neighbourhood Learning Centres and some have operated with high levels of community engagement and year-round services for decades.

It is recognized that all schools in the province have unique characteristics that have evolved to meet local community needs and interests and that there are varying levels of engagement between schools and their communities. In addition to the models that have operated for years throughout the province, there are new approaches to community engagement and delivery of programs and services that fit the Neighbourhood Learning Centre concept.

These are generic NLC models:

 

These models are useful to understand the range and complexity of NLCs. There is no reason to be limited by these four models, consider a fifth model that could be a combination of elements from the first four models. Alternatively, it could be an entirely different model, such as significant working relationships with the local Aboriginal community or a local non-profit agency.

NLCs are designed to meet the unique needs of every community. NLCs are not required to fit into any one model. Developing NLCs are encouraged to consider every model and adapt the elements to fit the needs of the community that is being served.