During the Covid-19 pandemic, the very youngest pupils in schools had their schooling and social interactions in the classroom disrupted by lengthy periods of partial school closures and remote learning. Since then, schools have worked tirelessly to support their learning recovery.
To understand the long-term impact of the pandemic on these children's learning and social skills, NFER has led a unique longitudinal study following over 4,700 pupils as they progress through primary school.
Below you will find the annual findings from this study, the most recent of which was captured in spring 2024 when the pupils were in Years 4 and 5.
This study has only been possible thanks to the ongoing support of participating schools. We would like to say a huge thank you to all those involved for their time and input.
Key findings from the four year study (2020-2024)
Summary for schools: Four years on: What has been the impact of KS1 school closures on later attainment and social skills?
Latest research from the fourth year of the study (2023/24)
Summary for schools: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on later attainment and social skills (2023/24)
Full report: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on later attainment and social skills (2023/24)
Research from the third year of the study (2022/23)
Summary for schools: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on later attainment and social skills (2022/23)
Full report: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on later attainment and social skills (2022/23)
Research from the second year of the study (2021/22)
Summary for schools: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on later attainment and social skills (2021/22)
Full report: Impact of Key Stage 1 school closures on subsequent attainment and social skills (2021/22)
Research from the first year of the study (2020/21)
