Citizens today are required to have a better understanding of science and technology in order
to help them to participate in science informed decision making and knowledge based
innovation (Hazelkorn et al., 2015). One way in which schools can help to address this
challenge is through the concept of Open Schooling. An Open School is an engaging
environment that makes a vital contribution to the community. The Open Schooling
approach aims to move beyond the constraints of present structures through supporting
teachers in designing and implementing an Open Schooling model. This model promotes
and encourages collaboration with non-formal and informal education providers, enterprises
and civil society to ensure relevant and meaningful engagement of all societal actors with
science (Louisoni, Istance & Hutmacher, 2004). We are in the initial phase of introducing
Open Schooling in Ireland in the context of the Horizon 2020 project Open Schools for Open
Societies. We have conducted interviews with school principals in order to assess where they
perceive their school stands in relation to the characteristics of open schooling. This paper
presents a framework for the analysis of these interviews, along with the initial findings from
two of these interviews. We discuss the findings in the context of the needs and expectations
of schools as they move towards becoming Open Schooling hubs.