At The Edge Foundation we believe in helping schools, colleges and universities to put into practice the approaches we advocate through our research and policy work. In the past, Edge has provided grant funding to projects around the country that showcase the best of applied learning and helped to establish the Edge Hotel School as an exemplar of real world learning in Higher Education. Our approach now is to develop, promote and support the delivery of Deeper Learning.
The term ‘Deeper Learning’ has emerged internationally to describe a variety of practices that reflect a broader purpose for the education system, in line with our mission to Make Education Relevant. A system oriented to ensuring each young person is empowered to flourish and be the best version of themselves - an education of the head, heart and hand.
We continue to work with many of the leading models from across the world through our Deeper Learning International Network.
Right across the UK there are amazing examples of schools, colleges, Multi Academy Trusts, Universities, College Groups and voluntary sector organisations who are leading this work. They are developing and delivering innovative curricula that link subjects to real life and to the area around the school or college. They are engaging employers in new ways to bring topics alive and helping students to work on projects and briefs reflecting real world issues.
You can find out more about the members of the Deeper Learning UK Network here and about the evidence and evaluation base that underpins this work here. You can also read about some of the amazing examples we’ve visited in our Practice Library.
The Deeper Learning Network specialises in three signature practices of deeper learning that help bring education to life: Project Based Learning, Real World Learning, and Community Connected Learning. All is supported by our Evidence Base.
Project Based Learning
Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students work on a project over time - from a week to up to a term - that engages them in solving a real-world problem or answering a complex question. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing a public product or presentation for a real audience.
Real World Learning
Real World Learning involves intentionally designing the curriculum so it is relevant and contextualised, making learning meaningful and inspiring. Core to Real World Learning is connecting subject knowledge to real world learning experiences and problem solving. Students may complete internships and work placements, while teachers and lecturers take part in an externship.
Community Connected Learning
Community Connected Learning is a form of experiential learning where students collaborate with external partners to address real-world challenges as part of their broader education.
Resources for Teachers and Employers
There is a wealth of experience within the Deeper Learning UK Network and we love to help members to codify their practice so that it can be shared with others and spread to support more students.
You can find a wide range of free resources developed in partnership with Deeper Learning UK members for teachers here.
We also know that the education and skills system can be complex to navigate for employers – you can find some excellent resources produced by our friends at The Gatsby Foundation here.