Participation in learning

Reflected in the recent legislation to raise the participation age to 18, a key priority for government is to ensure that young people continue in learning after the end of year 11 to ensure that their life chances are not limited by non-participation at 16.  NFER’s research has informed the development of policy in this area in particular through a review of literature and by providing evidence of the experience of young people who are disaffected or disengaged from learning.  For example, our research has provided valuable evidence from the experience of young people highlighting the range of issues that need to be overcome in order to meet the target of ensuring all young people participate in learning by 2013.

Selected research projects

Increasing participation: understanding young people who do not participate in education or training at 16 or 17
Client: DCSF | NFER Contact: Sarah Golden

Raising the participation age in education and Training to 18: Review of existing evidence
Client: DCSF | NFER Contact: Thomas Spielhofer

Non-formal learning: good practice in re-engaging young people who are NEET
Client: LGA | NFER Contact: Thomas Spielhofer

Evaluation of the Children in Trouble projects
Client: LGA | NFER Contact: Karen Halsey

Disengagement and Re-engagement of Young People in Learning at Key Stage 3
Clients: Nuffield Foundation, Research in Practice, NFER | NFER Contact: Marian Morris

Improving the outcomes for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller pupils
Client: DCSF | NFER Contact: Anne Wilkin

Evaluation of the Reach for Excellence Programme
Client: The Sutton Trust | NFER Contact: Emily Lamont

Current and recent projects | Reports and publications | What we offer for schools