Policy and evidence

Successive research studies have shown that participation in study support impacts on attainment, achievement, attitudes to learning, self-esteem, attendance and behaviour.

Study Support and School Improvement

'Study support is a fundamental part of the government’s vision for education, one where all children, regardless of background or circumstances, have the opportunity and the means to make the most of their abilities.'

'Study support is the embodiment of personalised learning – providing learning activities to pupils in ways that suit them best, finding things they enjoy, and using those as a pathway into learning…. Shaping education and services around each individual pupil is the key to raising standards in schools.'

'While we all know study support plays a vital part in the extended schools and personalised learning agendas, we need to remember its main role which is to contribute to school improvement. We know that young people who participate in study support benefit more than their peers, both academically, and in their behaviour and attendance at school, and in terms of increased confidence and self esteem.'

(Quotations taken from an address by the Rt Hon Jacqui Smith, Minister of State for Schools, delivered on her behalf at the National 'Maximising Impact' Study Support Conference, 29th March 2006)

Study support is recognised as a key contributor to school improvement and the development of the whole child/young person. The greatest impact is seen when study support is strategically rooted, valued, planned and evaluated both at school and Local Authority level. Effective strategic commitment, communication and support are crucial to maximising the impact and benefits of study support for children and young people. Good study support leads to increased enjoyment and engagement in learning and is proven to develop greater motivation and self-confidence in the children and young people who choose to attend.

Now read about how study support links with, supports and enhances the Every Child Matters programme, and other national initiatives and agendas.

Free guides to help you deliver local key strategies

At local authority level, effective study support programmes can be incorporated into, enhance, support and develop a range of key strategies. For example: Extended Schools, Workforce Remodelling, Special Educational Needs and achievement of the PSA targets. On behalf of the DfES (now DCSF), ContinYou have produced a series of Strategy Guides. Each guide illustrates how the relevant strategic lead, within the authority, can use study support to enhance the development and delivery of their area. View and download the guides.