Narrowing the gap in outcomes for vulnerable groups: a review of the research evidence
The National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) has investigated how educational outcomes for children from vulnerable backgrounds can be effectively and markedly improved.
The NFER looked to discover evidence that illustrated the ways in which the 'attainment gap' in schools could be narrowed. The team investigated which projects were successful in delivering better outcomes for children from vulnerable backgrounds and why. This built a picture of the sort of education programmes that could best benefit those most at risk of dropping out of the education system altogether.
The report concluded that engaging parents and carers in their children's education was vital in helping children achieve at school and improve emotional well-being, and that these approaches benefited both the most vulnerable and the most able within schools. Activities other than core teaching and learning built into the life of the school, such as pupil decision making, effective pastoral systems and out-of-school learning, improved outcomes for the most vulnerable also.
Evidence was found that providing work-related learning opportunities at key stage 4 for those who were low attainers at key stage 3 lead to improved attainment and a greater likelihood of continuing in education and training post-16.
A copy of the report can be accessed here.
Website
nfer.ac.uk
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