| Research | NACE |
|
NACE research: making space for able learners There is a paucity of research-based evidence on which to build effective provision for the most able learners, who are often overlooked and underserved. In this context, NACE launched the “making space for able learners” project in 2018 – seeking to review, extend and disseminate evidence-based practice for highly effective more able provision.
PHASE 1
Making space for able learners Cognitive challenge: The first phase of the project focused on approaches to “cognitive challenge”, drawing on relevant education research and pedagogical frameworks, alongside examples of effective practice at schools holding the NACE Challenge Award. This resulted in a publication which sets out key principles for schools seeking to ensure all young people have access to high-quality, cognitively challenging learning experiences. Read more
PHASE 2
Making space for able learners Cognitively challenging learning: The second phase of the project focused on effective approaches to assessment, as a key component of high-quality, cognitively challenging provision. The resulting publication combines an overview of the relevant research in this field with case studies from NACE member schools, seeking to arm school leaders and practitioners with the tools to transform assessment into an integral part of cognitively challenging learning for all. Read more
PHASE 3
Making space for able learners Cognitively challenging learning: removing barriers to opportunity and achievement The third phase focused on how schools can best support learners who encounter a range of barriers to achievement. Calling for a move away from fixed labels, preconceptions and “deficit thinking”, it shows what is possible when schools focus on identifying and removing systemic barriers. Completed in association with York St John University, it showcases case studies from diverse contexts, as well as learners' experiences in their own words. Read more Purchase the publications Each of the three phases detailed above has resulted in a publication, summarising key messages for schools, with practical examples and case studies. Copies can be purchased for your school CPD library (£15 each or £30 for all three, including delivery within the UK). 
Is your school providing well for learners who experience any form of disadvantage? Have you found effective ways to break down barriers to achievement so that all young people can flourish? What challenges are you still seeking to address? Join the current phase of the “making space” project to share your experiences and be part of this important piece of research. Why participate?
You may have a high number of learners with pupil premium funding, English as an additional language, or with cognitive or learning diversity. There may be other factors which are putting the young people you serve at risk of underachievement and reducing their future educational, economic and social mobility – a failure for individuals, and for our wider society which is missing out on unfulfilled potential. Whatever your context, we want to hear from you. The more input we receive, the better and more impactful our research will be. None of us have all the answers but, as a group, we can make a positive difference to the lives of young people. Contact us with any questions, or complete one of the documents below and send your contributions to AnnMcCarthy@nace.co.uk. 
|
16/10/2025 » 22/04/2026
The Working Classroom: How to effectively support more able but under-resourced students
22/10/2025 » 22/04/2026
Thinking Moves A-Z: Metacognition Made Simple
Print Page