Rhythm, harmony and improvisation: examining collaborative leadership for belonging in school-university partnerships

Purpose This paper explores how collaborative leadership in school-university partnerships (SUPs) cultivates a sense of belonging and creates engaged learning communities. By connecting collaborative leadership dynamics with musical metaphors, the paper introduces the collaborative leadership through musical elements (CLME) model as a framework for effective collaboration in SUPs. Design/methodology/approach The paper synthesizes literature on SUPs and collaborative leadership practices while developing connections to musical elements. The conceptual synthesis method examines jazz ensemble dynamics and popular music themes to illuminate collaborative leadership processes. This framework bridges theoretical foundations with accessible metaphors to enhance understanding of complex collaborative dynamics in educational partnerships. Findings The CLME model proposes that SUPs may benefit from structured communication (rhythm), aligned institutional goals (harmony) and adaptability to changing circumstances (improvisation). Practical applications include rhythmic frameworks with integrated communication cycles and feedback loops, harmonic alignment through shared goal creation and cross-institutional bridge-building and improvisational capacity via innovation sessions and pilot programs. These elements translate to student experiences through participation opportunities, mentoring, curriculum enhancement and collaborative leadership modeling. This approach aims to create environments where all stakeholders experience belonging while supporting both individual growth and collective achievement. Originality/value The paper offers an innovative approach by using musical analogies from both popular music themes and jazz ensemble dynamics to illustrate collaborative leadership practices in educational partnerships. Our original CLME model presents insights that may inform the development and sustaining of partnerships that foster belonging in SUPs.