This book addresses what is globally acknowledged to be one of the most fundamental and pressing concerns in contemporary society: the ways in which education can help young people understand - and play a full and active part - in contemporary society. On the basis of a national project funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and conducted as part of a partnership between the National Foundation of Educational Research and the Department of Education at the University of York, UK, the authors analyse data from young people and teachers to explore what they understand by citizenship and community and what they currently do, and would like to do, to promote more effective learning and engagement. On the basis of this research the authors make recommendations to enhance levels of understanding and opportunities for engagement in citizenship communities.