Short Abstract

Present two main EEF approaches to longitudinal analysis: (1) routine tracking via the EEF Archive, and (2) pre-specified longitudinal analysis built into evaluation design when delayed or sustained impact is plausible and discuss and compare the advantages and limitations of the two approaches.

Description

Longitudinal analysis is a key component of the Education Endowment Foundation’s (EEF) mission to understand whether the effects of educational interventions persist, diminish, or emerge over time. By providing evidence on the durability of outcomes beyond the initial evaluation period, longitudinal analysis informs educational practice, supports evidence-based improvements, and guides decisions about regranting funding to programmes.

This presentation aims to introduce the two main approaches EEF uses for longitudinal analysis. The first is routine tracking through the EEF Archive, which leverages National Pupil Database data and analysis by Durham University. The second is pre-specified longitudinal analysis built into evaluation design when delayed or sustained impact is plausible. It is also aimed to compare the advantages and limitations of these approaches, considering factors such as cost, data completeness, theoretical interpretation, and the burden on schools. Another objective is to demonstrate how learning from challenges can refine educational approaches and how EEF’s evidence can help policymakers and funders decide which programmes to scale, adapt, or regrant. EEF is currently revising its approach to longitudinal analysis to consider how best the analysis can support EEF’s overall mission. Flexible models are being considered, including longitudinal analysis on all archived projects, longitudinal outcomes being incorporated in original trial design or focusing on programmes in the funding pipeline to maximise the practical value and impact of longitudinal evidence for education. By connecting these insights to the conference theme, we aim to show how evaluation can drive real-world change and improve outcomes for learners and the education sector.

Attendees will gain practical insights into two viable approaches to longitudinal analysis that are highly relevant to the educational sector. They will learn how EEF has applied these methods to strengthen its strategy and mission, ensuring evidence-based improvements and sustained impact. The session will provide an opportunity to explore the EEF's Archive and understand EEF’s longitudinal research methodology in depth. Attendees from evaluation teams in the charity sector, other What Works Centres, and consultancy evaluation teams will leave with a clearer understanding of how longitudinal analysis can inform decision-making and enhance evaluation practice. There will also be time for questions and discussion to support knowledge sharing and application.

EEF uses longitudinal analysis to identify which programmes are worth scaling, adapting, or regranting. This ensures that the education sector can come to more evidence informed decisions when it comes to investing their time and resources in interventions that are more likely to deliver a positive, lasting impact.

EEF’s mission is to break the link between family income and educational achievement by supporting the education sector to transform outcomes for socio-economically disadvantaged children and young people. To achieve this, EEF through its wide work and the longitudinal follow up research methodology enables practitioners to focus on evidence and what works best in practice, ensuring that early years providers, schools, and colleges have access to accurate, accessible, and actionable evidence to improve teaching and learning.