Analyses the impact of the New Deal for Communities (NDC) Programme on the educational attainment of children living in the NDC Partnerships between 2002 and 2007, using individual level longitudinal data. Presents data on the performance of the NDC Partnerships compared to their local authorities, and outlines the types of interventions used in education. Presents the findings from the analyses at the programme-wide, sub-group and individual partnership level. Considers whether educational attainment outcomes have improved over and above any improvements that might have been expected in the absence of the NDC Programme. Suggests that there is little evidence of programme-wide change, but notes that changes in attainment can be seen in some sub-groups, and in some NDC Partnerships. Outlines policy implications relevant to the NDC Programme and other area-based initiatives.