Adult learning and skills
An overview
We bring deep understanding of funding models, employer engagement and learner progression. Our evidence helps shape effective adult learning and apprenticeship policies designed to improve employability and address skills gaps and shortages in support of economic growth. Our work includes evaluating Click Start, a digital skills initiative for hard-to-reach learners, and the national and delgated Skills Bootcamps programmes. We have assessed innovative apprenticeship models such as the Flexi-job Apprenticeship pilots in the creative industries. Building on earlier studies of Higher and Degree Apprenticeships, Skills Banks and post-16 education choices, we apply proven evaluation methods to generate actionable insights that improve adult learning pathways and apprenticeship outcomes.
Examples of our work
Evaluation of Skills Bootcamps
The challenge
England faces skills shortages in key growth sectors such as digital, engineering, green technologies and construction. The Department for Education introduced Skills Bootcamps to help adults retrain or upskill through free, flexible courses co-designed with employers, supporting progression into higher-skilled jobs and addressing workforce gaps.
Our role
CFE conducted a mixed-methods process evaluation of the Skills Bootcamps programme from 2022 to 2025. We analysed management data, information on applicants, participants and employers and conducted surveys, focus groups and interviews with learners. The evaluation explored factors affecting completion and employment outcomes across different demographic groups, sectors and regions.
Impact
We produced a series of outputs, including official statistics on the number of starts and outcomes and completions, and research reports on how Bootcamps were operationalised and delivered and improved the employment outcomes of participants. Insight was shared with policymakers throughout which informed changes to how the programme was delivered. Our partners at London School of Economics conducted a quantitative impact evaluation.
Evaluation of the Further Education Targeted Retention Incentives
The challenge
Further education providers face persistent challenges recruiting and retaining teachers in priority subjects such as STEM and early years. To address this, the Department for Education introduced the Targeted Retention Incentive (TRI) – financial payments designed to attract and keep early career teachers in key roles, improving the quality and stability of FE provision.
Our role
CFE, working in partnership with the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER), is delivering a robust, mixed-methods evaluation of TRI. Our study combines a theory-based evaluation with a quasi-experimental design, analysing national datasets, surveys, and in-depth case studies to understand impact, mechanisms of change, and variation across different contexts and providers.
Impact
This evaluation will provide the Department with early insights into how and why TRI is influencing teacher retention, and robust evidence of its impact. Findings will guide future workforce policy and support a stronger, more sustainable FE teaching profession.
Other sectors we work in
We work across diverse fields, tailoring our research expertise to deliver clear, trusted insights. Our adaptable approach means we apply rigorous research across varied contexts, always focused on learning, clarity, and positive change.
STEM
CFE has a strong track record of evaluating initiatives that inspire and inform children and young people about STEM subjects and careers. Our work spans curriculum resources, enrichment activities and school partnerships, helping to debunk myths, raise aspirations, and improve attainment.
Multiple disadvantage
We work across sectors to understand and address the complex needs of people facing multiple disadvantage, including homelessness, mental ill-health, substance misuse, and offending. Our research supports integrated, person-centred approaches to tackling entrenched inequalities.
Let’s work together
Whether you need a long-term evaluation partner or a rapid evidence review, we’re here to help. Get in touch to explore how we can support your goals.
