Developing an “education business partnership” through placement

Examines the case for introduction of economic and industrial awareness in the primary sector. Notes the Curriculum Guidance for this cross‐curriculum theme issued by the National Curriculum Council in 1990 and draws on the experience of two case studies within primary schools to determine prerequisites for effective links. Using these resources as a basis, outlines the author’s own experience of using placement to forge a link with a local company, difficulties encountered, steps taken to cement the relationship culminating in a partnership development plan. Finds the results to be very similar to the case‐study evidence. Concludes that with total collaboration and commitment of educational and industrial partners a mutually fruitful and developing relationship can be formulated which is permanent notwithstanding future structural or personnel changes within the school or company.