This article considers the ways in which special schools work in partnership with other organisations in order to meet the support needs of their pupils and enhance their educational provision. Data are taken from interviews in 2009 and 2010 with staff, pupils and governors at four different special schools in England. Schools appeared proactive and creative in seeking opportunities for partnership and collaborative activity with other organisations and with individuals. Partnerships with support services from different agencies were often well established. All faced challenges, however, in engaging mainstream schools in collaborative work beyond sharing facilities. The article highlights the different challenges faced by special and mainstream schools regarding partnership work to support pupils with special educational needs.