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It is increasingly understood that the emergence of the knowledge-based economy (KBE) at local, sub-regional and regional level may be accompanied by increased social polarization -- in essence certain communities are in danger of being left behind. The broad perspective for this paper is the concern that, as a counterbalancing measure, the secondary education sector needs to be more wholly integrated into the design and delivery of KBE policy at the concept stage of localized initiatives. This paper seeks to contribute to the debate on KBE policy by considering the extent to which local KBE initiatives across cities in England can connect with local communities. In particular, we argue that the local secondary education (11-19 year old) sector has a bridging role to play in connecting local communities to local KBE agendas. The education sector is ideally placed to help local communities prepare for the opportunities that will emerge from KBE activity. The challenge of incorporating the sector is elaborated through the examination of a case study of the Central Technology Belt (CTB) in south Birmingham. The paper concludes by reflecting on the implications of the discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]