What We Do

Our mission is to generate evidence and insights that can be used to improve outcomes for future generations everywhere, and to support positive change across education systems.

Our long history, vast experience and pioneering methods have established our reputation as an authoritative, trusted and respected voice in education. Today that reputation is enhanced with an unmatched depth and breadth of specialist education knowledge, talent and methodological expertise.

We use our expertise to produce high-quality, independent, research and insights to inform key decisions makers about issues across the education system, including:

Our clients include government departments and agencies at international, national and local levels, third sector organisations, private and public companies, employers and other organisations with an interest in education. They all benefit from the full range of our expert and professional services.

As an independent, not-for-profit organisation we invest any surplus funds directly back into our programme of research to address key questions in education – delivering new knowledge to help build better futures - and in increasing our impact and support for policy makers and practitioners.

Families and Schools Together (FAST): Evaluation report and executive summary

This process evaluation explored participants’ views and experiences of Families and Schools Together (FAST), a parental engagement programme which aims to support parenting, enhance links between families, school and the community, and make a difference to children’s behaviour and learning.
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The Skills Imperative 2035: An analysis of the demand for skills in the labour market in 2035

This third output from the Skills Imperative 2035 research programme looks at the skills required for the labour market of the future.
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Evaluation of the implementation of the Early Years Pupil Deprivation Grant

Welsh Government commissioned NFER to evaluate the Early Years Pupil Deprivation Grant (EYPDG). This grant was introduced in 2015/16 to improve outcomes for learners from low income families receiving Foundation Phase early years education for ten hours or more per week in an approved setting.
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