Rapid Research and Analysis of Local Cultural Education Partnerships

This rapid programme of research and analysis provides a detailed and up-to-date understanding of Local Cultural Education Partnerships (LCEPs) across the five Arts Council England (ACE) regions to inform future investment in LCEPs. LCEPs aim to support children and young people (CYP) in their creative potential, providing access to cultural experiences in their place (i.e., where they live, where they go to school, and where they spend their free time). The partners that make up the network of partnerships in each LCEP come from a cross-section of multiple sectors, including culture, arts, education, higher education, youth, health, criminal justice, voluntary, commercial, and creative sectors, as well as local or combined authorities. LCEPs are place-specific, and they take on many different forms that respond to local needs and interests. They are supported by ACE’s network of Bridge Organisations, who provide developmental and strategic support that is relevant to their stage of development and need. This report is based on data collected through four methods: (1) interviews with Bridge Organisations and LCEPs, (2) a national survey of LCEPs, (3) a literature review based on quarterly monitoring reports (QMRs) and ACE documents, and (4) digital mapping. From our analysis of this data, we have shared key considerations that ACE can take on in their approach to LCEPs under the following themes:
Who are We?
Where is the energy coming from?
What is the money for?
How can we learn from and with each other?