Education research is a complex business. Conducting rigorous studies in the unpredictable, ever-changing world of the classroom? It’s always going to be a challenge. But that shouldn’t deter us. If anything, it should make us even more committed to understanding what works in education.
Evidence has the power to transform teaching and learning. It can highlight strategies that have been proven to work elsewhere, while steering us away from those that simply don’t deliver. The more research we gather, the smarter we get - not just about effective teaching methods, but also about how best to implement them in ways that stick.
Chances are, your school has already been part of a research project. Seven out of ten schools in England have taken part in an Education Endowment Foundation (EEF)-funded study. But we know that, in today’s climate, school leaders have to make tough choices. Budgets are tight, and any new initiative - no matter how promising - has to earn its place on your priority list.
We’ve just launched across writing, secondary maths, and communication and language, to rigorously test the impact of different approaches in real classrooms. The projects cover early years, primary and secondary. They explore everything from handwriting techniques and peer coaching, to teacher training with the Royal Shakespeare Company and strategies for improving pupils’ writing motivation.
So, why should your school get involved?
1. Access high-quality programmes at a subsidised rate
Every project we fund has already gone through a rigorous screening process. We assess how well it aligns with existing evidence and ensure that the teams delivering it are fully equipped to support schools. That means if an initiative has EEF funding, you know it already meets a high quality standard.
Best of all, by taking part, your school can access these programmes at a heavily-subsidised rate - and in some cases, completely free. It’s a fantastic way to engage with evidence-based initiatives without stretching your budget.
2. Support your teachers’ development
A motivated, developed workforce is key to retaining teachers in the profession and your school. Professional development is integral to this.
Almost all of our projects provide high-quality professional development, to equip teachers with research-backed strategies that can enhance their teaching. This is CPD that’s grounded in evidence and directly applicable to your classrooms.
3. Enhance your pupil premium strategy
All of our projects have a particular focus on supporting socio-economically disadvantaged pupils.
So taking part in an EEF-funded project can help you implement and strengthen your pupil premium strategy with interventions designed to close attainment gaps.
4. Shape the future of education
Schools play a vital role in building the evidence base. Since 2011, more than 15,000 schools have taken part in an EEF-funded project. Each and every one has helped put us in a much better position to understand what works and, just as importantly, what doesn’t.
By getting involved, your school will help us make sure that future policies and practices are based on solid evidence.
Be part of something bigger
We all have a role to play in embedding evidence-informed practice into our education system. Policymakers, research organisations like the EEF, and - most importantly - teachers in classrooms all contribute to shaping a system where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.
Taking part in a research trial isn’t just about testing new ideas. It’s about being part of a movement to improve education for all. If you want to drive real change in your school - and beyond - .
Iggy Rhodes is head of programmes at the Education Endowment Foundation
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