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Community Engagement

We believe that community engagement is not a “nice to have” – it is central to our mission of preparing learners for adulthood, independence, and, where possible, employment.

Our aim is to build meaningful, sustainable relationships with community groups, educational partners and employers that create real opportunities for learners with SEND within and out of education.

  • Collaboration with other education partners ensures pathways and curriculum are joined up and sustainable, especially through transition points.
  • Employers and community partners benefit from engaging with us, as this breaks down barriers, highlighting the unique talents and skills of our learners and building inclusive communities and workplaces, strengthening reputations.

We’ll measure how successful our community engagement is not by the number of partnerships, but by the quality of opportunities they create for learners. Our intention is that Creating Tomorrow becomes a valued partner embedded in the local economy and community.

People holding a leavers' shirt that students have made

Core Community Engagement Objectives

Working with our key stakeholders, our core objectives are to:
  • Raise Awareness – Increase understanding of SEND and showcase learners’ strengths and potential.
  • Develop Partnerships – Build mutual beneficial relationships with employers, community organisations and education partners.
  • Create Pathways – Establish opportunities for learners within and outside of education.
  • Strengthen Community Links – Work with local networks, charities, and groups to enhance inclusion.
  • Celebrate Success – Share positive stories of impact for learners, employers, and the wider community.

Engagement Pillars

To meet our objectives, we’ll focus our community engagement activities across four key pillars:

1. Employer Engagement

  • Develop a clear ‘employer offer’ (what support and value they receive).
  • Offer training/resources on inclusive recruitment and workplace adjustments.
  • Coordinate work experience, supported internships and career talks.
  • Establish employer ambassadors or champions for SEND inclusion.

2. Community Engagement

  • Build partnerships with local groups. Promote volunteering and civic participation opportunities for learners.
  • Host community events that showcase learners’ talents.
  • Strengthen visibility of Creating Tomorrow in local communities.

3. Education Partner Engagement

  • Collaborate with local schools, colleges and training providers to share expertise.
  • Develop joint initiatives (career fairs, skills workshops, family support, transition programmes).
  • Strengthen pathways for learners moving between settings (school, college and work).
  • Share resources, good practice and staff CPD opportunities.

4. Communication & Advocacy

  • Develop clear messaging about the Trust’s aims and the benefits of partnership.
  • Share case studies and impact stories across channels (social media, newsletters, press).
  • Ensure consistent branding and language around ‘community’ and ‘employability.

Why not have a chat about how we can work together?

Get in touch with Stacey Morris, Community and Employer Engagement Business Partner.