Evidence base
This section provides links and a brief summary of a robust evidence base. For example, peer-reviewd studies, systematic revies, evaluations of interventions and best practice guidelines from national sources.
|
Issue number 1 = highest priority |
|
|
|
1 |
Source |
UK Parliament |
|
Title incl. web link |
||
|
Summary |
UK Parliament POST review highlights widening attainment gaps for disadvantaged pupils post-pandemic, linking these gaps to persistent school absence and exclusion. It emphasizes early intervention and systemic reforms to reduce inequalities. |
|
|
Source |
Administrative Data Research UK |
|
|
Title incl. web link |
The relationship between school exclusion and educational attainment – ADR UK |
|
|
Summary |
Ongoing ESRC-funded study using longitudinal National Pupil Database data to quantify how exclusions (temporary and permanent) impact attainment, with implications for policy on inclusion and alternative provision |
|
|
2 |
Source |
Department for Educaiton |
|
Title incl. web link |
Early years provision for children with SEND and in deprived areas – GOV.UK |
|
|
Summary |
Department for Education research identifies challenges in early years settings in deprived areas, including limited access to SENCOs, funding barriers, and parental engagement issues. Recommends workforce training and targeted funding. |
|
|
Source |
UNICEF UK |
|
|
Title incl. web link |
Held back from the start: the impact of deprivation on early childhood – UNICEF UK |
|
|
Summary |
UNICEF UK report maps deprivation against early childhood outcomes, showing strong links between poverty and poor development at age five. Calls for urgent policy action to reduce child poverty and improve early years services. |
|
|
3 |
Source |
International Monetary Fund |
|
Title incl. web link |
Upskilling the UK Workforce – IMF Selected Issues Paper |
|
|
Summary |
IMF analysis of UK skills shortages highlights chronic gaps in STEM, digital, and vocational skills. Recommends scaling apprenticeships, vocational training, and retention strategies for young workers. |
|
|
Source |
The Productivity Institute |
|
|
Title incl. web link |
Skills Gap & Labour Market: Addressing Workforce Challenges – The Productivity Institute |
|
|
Summary |
Thematic guide explores regional skills gaps, especially in manufacturing and technology sectors. Suggests employer-led training, reskilling initiatives, and collaboration between education providers and industry. |
|
|
4 |
Source |
|
|
Title incl. web link |
How the Enduring Rhetoric of “Raising Aspirations” Affects HE Choice Support – Educational Review |
|
|
Summary |
Peer-reviewed study examines how aspiration-raising policies influence HE choices for vocational students in England. Finds strategies often ad-hoc and ineffective, highlighting need for structural support alongside aspiration work. |
|
|
Source |
Educational Review |
|
|
Title incl. web link |
||
|
Summary |
Research critiques the deficit model underpinning aspiration-raising policies. Argues for nuanced approaches that consider structural barriers and individual goals, aligning with widening participation objectives. |
|