This article explores the theoretical foundations of place-based education (PBE). The authors argue that there is a place for PBE in schools but contend that it must be informed by a far more critical reading of the notions of ‘place’, ‘identity’ and ‘community’. The authors use an empirically grounded study to illustrate the potential benefits and limitations of PBE, and conclude with some suggestions as to how schools and teacher education programs might promote the development of socially critical approaches to PBE.