Research specialisms
We have four research specialisms, and each is subdivided into themes where you can find out more about our work including previous and current projects.
Children and young people
- Early years
Our early years research includes work with professionals and newly qualified teachers, as well as consulting with young children in the 0–6 year age group - Children and young people's wellbeing
Our research broadly connected to young people’s ‘wellbeing’ has been funded by a wide range of government, local authority, NHS and voluntary sector organisations. It has included, for example, work on PSHE education and SRE, homophobic and transphobic bullying, and school-based health services.
Both specialisms offer innovative and creative methodologies within their practice.
16–19 and lifelong learning
- 16–19 education
We have built up a broad portfolio of work around supporting workforce reform and staff development in 16–19 education. - Social inclusion and education
This work includes the wider lifelong learning aspects of education, such as the role the school can play in supporting community education.
Education and schools
- Leadership and management in education
Our primary areas of interest in this theme are school strategy and resource management. - Parents, schools and education markets
This includes research into secondary school admissions and the support services offered. - Educational careers and professional development
Our work on newly qualified teachers (NQTs) and professional development is at the heart of much of the practice within this theme in the Centre. - Science, schools and education
We have a wealth of experience in evaluating a range science and mathematics initiatives and work closely with the Centre for Science Education and Mathematics Education Centre.
Higher education
- Transnational education (TNE)
This includes the internationalisation of higher education and international student mobility. - Widening participation
The widening participation agenda in higher education has been of particular interest, with a focus on initiatives such as Aimhigher.
