Our research themes

Speech, Language and Communication

This theme considers the impact of research on children’s Speech, Language and Communication (SLC), a skill which is essential for later life outcomes. Our research has contributed to understanding ‘what works’ to support children's SLC development particularly in the Early Years (Communication Friendly Settings, Communication Friendly Home-Based Settings, outcomes of Talking Together evaluation and results (oTTer), Concept Cat, Plan, Do, Review, ParentChild+, Bristol Early Language and Early Talk for York).

Reading and writing

We are currently running the efficacy trial of Writing Roots to understand how the programme can enhance primary school children's reading and writing skills. We have also worked on Grammar for Writing, REACH Primary, Ameliorating children's reading comprehension difficulties, The effects of reading and language intervention on literacy skills in children in a remote community. Efficacy of a reading and language intervention for children with Down syndrome. Reading and Writing are essential for educational attainment and also later cognitive skills and social and emotional learning.

Maths and meta-cognition

Our research on maths and meta-cognition spans from primary education (Effects of co‐operative learning on the mathematics achievement of Years 4 and 5 pupils in Britain), to secondary education (Peer-to-Peer maths coaching) and further education (5Rs). Maths and meta-cognition skills are vitally important for educational attainment and later life job prospects. Meta-cognition is also linked to better maths outcomes.

Social and Emotional Learning

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) has been a growing area of focus following the impact on the Covid19 pandemic on children's early SEL. We are working with the Project Marigold charity to understand how interventions can be used to support teachers and children’s mental health and well being.

Parenting interventions

We are working with Local Authorities to provide guidance on how they can best support families through local Family Hubs being set up as part of the governments ‘Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life’ strategy. This aligns with our work on parenting interventions (ParentChild+).

Policy

Through our work we seek to ensure that educational policy and research is understandable and accessible to all (Enhancing Parliamentary Evaluation of Democratic Engagement Programmes, Delivering the Best Start in Life strategy: Planning and data for local contexts, Considerations for Local Authorities on selecting evidence-based parenting interventions).