International School - Non-Governmental Organisation Partnerships: A Framework for Success

This paper explores the enactment of partnerships between international schools and non-governmental organisations in Hong Kong and introduces the International School-NGO (IS-NGO) Partnership Framework. Drawing on a collective case study methodology, the research included a preliminary questionnaire with 30 participants, six in-depth interviews across three partnerships, and document analysis. Findings indicate that successful IS-NGO partnerships are characterised by authentic reciprocity, in which both partners achieve outcomes unattainable independently. Key enablers include designated leaders, balanced power, and embedded structures. These findings are synthesised into the IS-NGO Partnership Framework, a practical tool to guide the formation, maintenance, and evaluation of partnerships, providing valuable insights for school leaders, policymakers, and practitioners. This study makes an original contribution to knowledge by advancing the understanding of IS-NGO partnerships and offering actionable recommendations for practice and future research.