Evaluation of ASCENTS 1-2-1 Support for Science - retrial
About the study
We are evaluating ASCENTs 1-2-1 Support for Science, a mentoring programme which pairs university STEM students with year 11 pupils to provide one-to-one support in science subjects.
ASCENTs, originally designed by the University of Lincoln, will be delivered by the University of Roehampton in collaboration with University of Lincoln, University of Liverpool, Northumbria University, Anglia Ruskin University, University of Hull and Plymouth Marjon University. The programme aims to improve GCSE science attainment of disadvantaged year 11 pupils.
NatCen has been funded by the Education Endowment Foundation, (EEF), to conduct an independent evaluation of the programme.
The purpose of the evaluation is to, assess the impact of ASCENTS on pupils’ science attainment; understand factors that impact successful implementation of ASCENTS; and assess whether, and how best, ASCENTS can be delivered more widely. The results of the evaluation will provide useful insight into how one-to-one support and paired learning can impact student achievement and progression in STEM subjects.
What will taking part involve?
Mentors
Please refer to the timetable below for a guide to what taking part in this evaluation involves:
| Time | Evaluation activity |
|---|---|
| Autumn 2023 |
|
| January to May 2024 |
|
| May/June 2024 |
|
| 2025 - 2028 |
|
Schools
Please refer to the timetable below for a guide to what taking part in this evaluation involves:
| Time | Evaluation activity |
|---|---|
| September/October 2023 |
|
| January to May 2024 |
|
| May/June 2024 |
|
| June/July 2024 |
|
Parents and pupils
Please refer to the timetable below for a guide to what taking part in this evaluation involves:
| Time | Evaluation activity |
|---|---|
| January to May 2024 |
|
| May/June 2024 |
|
How will the data from the evaluation be used?
The information that we collect will be used for evaluation purposes only. We will not use the names of mentors, schools, staff members or pupils when reporting our findings. All information will be treated confidentially. All data will be transferred and stored securely in accordance with GDPR, and personal information and any other data held on the project will be archived for research purposes and then NatCen will securely delete any data they hold once the evaluation is complete.
More information can be found in the privacy notice.
Who are the National Centre for Social Research?
The National Centre for Social Research is an independent social research organisation that carries out research on a wide range of social issues.
Who are The Education Endowment Foundation?
The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) is an independent grant-making charity dedicated to breaking the link between family income and educational achievement, ensuring that children from all backgrounds can fulfil their potential and make the most of their talents.
The EEF have provided the funding for this project.
Privacy notice
To see our privacy notice, please click here.
Get in touch
If you have queries about the evaluation, please contact the research team at ASCENTSresearch@natcen.ac.uk or 0808 168 0747