Evaluation Of University Technical Colleges
30 July 2026

Blog: The career ladder is missing its first rung

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.
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Secondary Children With Teacher And Ipad
28 July 2026

NFER comment on the Prime Minister’s plans for technical education reforms

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.
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NABS Pupil Absenteeism
28 July 2026

Blog: Tackling absence isn’t just about getting pupils through the gates

Senior Research Manager Dr Emma Moore blogs about the complex challenge of tackling persistent absence in English secondary schools,
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Gettyimages 534576239
23 July 2026

New research suggests pupil wellbeing challenges fuelling persistent school absence rates

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.
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Free School Meals Photo
20 July 2026

It’s time to start planning for changes to FSM eligibility

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?
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Falling Pupil Numbers Research Bite
16 July 2026

NFER responds to new National Pupil Projections

NFER Senior Economist Michael Scott has responded to National Pupil Projections showing primary and secondary pupil numbers in England are forecast to fall further and faster than expected.
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