‘Putting into Practice Pedagogy of Hope’ by Douglas Bourn

‘Putting into Practice Pedagogy of Hope’, by Douglas Bourn, is a new article published in Policy and Practice, A Development Education Review this Autumn, which includes the pilot of our Communities of Hope project as a case study for how distinctive optimistic pedagogy for global social justice can become a key element of teaching and learning within both formal and higher education.

In our first year of Communities of Hope—a project evolved from dialogue with faith leaders to address young people’s growing concerns about the future, including the climate emergency—we found that:

• Many students saw a link between hope and community engagement, and how change was possible by working collectively
• Young people do feel they have a sense of agency, particularly when connected with wider community groups
• Creativity played a key role in providing a safe and brave space to explore topics

Our pilot phase also highlighted the critical role of schools in facilitating hope for the future and addressing students’ concerns: Leaders within the schools need to make sure they listen to the concerns of young people, and schools can offer vital connections between young people and local community and environmental organisations that empower students’ agency and hope.

Communities of Hope continues delivery in 2025-26 to empower schools, educators, and pupils to take action and make a difference.

Read the full article, including our project case study, on the Development Education Review website here.