This report represents an overview of the findings of the testing process for the 2026 National Reference Test, which was taken by a random sample of around 13,000 year 11 students from over 330 schools in February and March 2026.

NFER Research Director Luke Bocock discusses how the decline of entry-level jobs is making it harder for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to begin and build sustainable careers.

NFER Co-Head of Policy and Practice Jude Hillary has responded to plans to broaden access to technical education, highlighting the need for careful planning, investment and support for schools and colleges.

Senior Research Manager Dr Emma Moore blogs about the complex challenge of tackling persistent absence in English secondary schools,

Deteriorating pupil wellbeing is likely to be a major factor influencing school attendance, according to new research, with increased social media use and online bullying linked to the decline.

The government has announced significant changes to FSM eligibility from September onwards. But what do these changes mean for schools, and what are the wider implications for understanding how the attainment of disadvantaged pupils is changing?