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- Tasks: Lead impactful research on education pathways and outcomes for vulnerable learners.
- Company: Join the Education Policy Institute, a leader in evidence-based education research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with a focus on meaningful educational change.
- Why this job: Make a difference in education policy and support vulnerable learners' success.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantitative research and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 45000 £ per year.
The Education Policy Institute (EPI) is an independent, impartial and evidence-based research institute that aims to promote high quality education outcomes for all children and young people, regardless of social background. We’re known for producing research that both informs and influences public debate and policy making.
We employ a team of dedicated quantitative researchers from a range of academic backgrounds and communication experts who produce high quality research and ensure that it reaches a wide range of audiences, including the top level of government and the national media.
About the Vulnerable Learners and Post 16 Team
At the age of 16, young people in England face a wide range of pathways, including vocational and technical routes, apprenticeships and A levels. Many progress to higher education (HE), while others re-enter education and training later in their working lives. The team’s work aims to provide robust evidence base on issues such as funding, attainment, qualification reform and access to HE. We assess the extent to which England’s post 16 provision prepares people for life and employment. The team also leads analysis on the opportunities and outcomes of more vulnerable groups across the education system, from early years through to young adulthood.
Our work addresses questions such as:
- How effectively and equitably is post 16 provision in England giving young people the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the economy and society?
- How are further and higher education provision and access changing, and which groups of young people are helped or harmed as a result?
- How have societal events such as the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis affected educational outcomes?
- How has qualification reform changed the nature and accessibility of post 16 education?
The position
EPI is seeking a Senior Researcher to join the Post 16 and Vulnerable Learners team. The postholder will contribute to, and at times lead, priority projects across the post 16 landscape, supporting work on education pathways, access, skills, and learner outcomes. This includes projects with a particular focus on the needs and outcomes of vulnerable learners.
As part of their remit, the postholder will also have ongoing responsibility for EPI’s HE research programme, continuing to shape and expand EPI’s HE agenda. Higher education remains a central component of the education policy debate, particularly in the context of cost‑of‑living pressures, fees and funding, and persistent inequalities in access for disadvantaged groups.
In their first six months in post, the Senior Researcher will support work to strengthen the evidence base on the experiences and challenges faced by young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in post 16 education. They will also contribute to projects examining post 16 drivers of student outcomes, qualification clustering and pathways, and EPI’s flagship annual report.
The postholder will have line management responsibility for a Researcher and will report to Sam Tuckett, Associate Director for 16–19 education.
Key responsibilities
- Undertaking quantitative analysis, using large administrative datasets
- Developing, testing and collaborating on the identification of policy solutions
- Communicating findings to policymakers, the education sector and mainstream media
- Leading the project management of research
- Building EPI’s HE research funding stream over time
- Maintaining and developing EPI’s HE network and leading on EPI’s commentary on HE policy
The postholder will also develop expertise in matched education and employment outcome data, including Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO), to inform research on the longer‑term outcomes associated with different higher and further education pathways.
We pay Senior Researchers £38,000 – £45,000 depending on experience. We also offer: 30 days annual leave (with additional leave for...
Senior Researcher, Vulnerable Learners and Post 16 in London employer: EDUCATION POLICY INSTITUTE
Contact Detail:
EDUCATION POLICY INSTITUTE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Researcher, Vulnerable Learners and Post 16 in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those involved with vulnerable learners. Attend events, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who works at EPI or similar organisations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your previous research projects and findings. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your insights and how they relate to the role of Senior Researcher. This will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to EPI and express your interest in the Senior Researcher position. A friendly email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm and commitment to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues affecting post 16 education. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with EPI’s goals, especially regarding vulnerable learners. We want to see that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Researcher, Vulnerable Learners and Post 16 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Researcher role. Highlight your experience with quantitative analysis and any relevant projects you've led, especially those focused on vulnerable learners.
Showcase Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for education policy and research! Share any personal experiences or insights that drive your interest in improving outcomes for vulnerable learners and post 16 education.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to understand your skills and experiences without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at EDUCATION POLICY INSTITUTE
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest research and trends related to vulnerable learners and post-16 education. Familiarise yourself with EPI’s previous reports and findings, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Quantitative Skills Showcase
Since the position involves quantitative analysis, be prepared to discuss your experience with large datasets. Bring examples of past projects where you’ve successfully used data to inform policy solutions or educational outcomes.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to communicate complex findings to various audiences, so practice explaining your research in simple terms. Think about how you would present your work to policymakers or the media, as clarity is key.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges faced by vulnerable learners and how you would approach finding solutions. This will demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability.