The Edge Foundation is an independent education charity dedicated to transforming learning so that it better prepares young people for the 21st century. They champion a broad, dynamic, and connected education system – one that values technical, creative, and vocational learning alongside academic study. Through research, policy influence, and partnerships with schools across the UK, Edge supports innovative approaches that bring learning to life through real-world experiences, creativity, and employer engagement.
Our relationship with Edge began when they reached out to XP after seeing how our approach embodied the kind of education they advocate for. Conversations between Andy, Gwyn, and the Edge team led to their first act of support – funding the publication of How We XP, our book exploring the principles behind our model of learning. That initial connection sparked an ongoing partnership grounded in shared purpose and mutual respect.
Since then, Edge has played a vital role in helping others “see how we XP.” They have supported visits, research, and publications that showcase our model and its impact. Their backing has enabled educators, policymakers, and business leaders to experience deeper learning in practice – both through in-person visits and online events such as XPose. Together, we have collaborated on teaching and learning models, careers and business education, and partnerships that bridge schools with industry. Edge’s connection with High Tech High has also helped strengthen international links and shared learning across the Deeper Learning movement.
At the heart of our partnership is a shared mission: to change education so that it is inclusive, equitable, and fit for the realities of the 21st century. We both believe in real-world learning, meaningful experiences, and the power of student agency. Edge values the way XP students produce work that matters, and we, in turn, value their advocacy – not just for us, but for an educational philosophy that places humanity, creativity, and purpose at its centre. Together, we’ve become international advocates for this vision.
What began as a conversation has grown into a deep, ongoing collaboration. Edge’s funding and advocacy have helped XP grow our reach – welcoming visitors from across the world, supporting students to become ambassadors, and developing our ethos through shared research and practice. We have also contributed to Edge’s own mission by hosting and collaborating on national events, showcasing what real-world, values-driven education looks like in action.
Looking ahead, our partnership with Edge continues to expand. We will keep welcoming delegates, sharing our model, and contributing to policy conversations that aim to shape the future of education. Through our shared work in the Deeper Learning Network and ongoing collaboration with schools and researchers, we’ll continue to advocate for a system that places students, purpose, and real-world learning at its heart.
