Research
High quality research and trusted insight to inform post-16 education and skills
With over 30 years of experience, RCU is a trusted partner in delivering independent, data-driven research that provides valuable insight into the Further Education and Skills sector. Our expertise in data analysis, learner trends, and sector intelligence helps inform decision-making, support policy formation and evaluation, and drive positive change.
We specialise in delivering high-quality research through advanced data analysis, extracting insights from key datasets such as ILR, NPD, and HESA.
Research Projects
Our work includes sector-wide engagement, capturing perspectives from education providers, employers, and learners, alongside labour market intelligence to map learner trends to workforce demand and skills gaps. We also conduct impact evaluations to assess the effectiveness of policies, funding, and interventions.
Our national research portfolio includes projects exploring learner participation, workforce trends, skills demand, and policy impact, such as:
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T Level Progression and Destinations Research - The Gatsby Foundation
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Educational Provision for 14-16-year-olds in Further Education in England
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Green Skills Adult Education in London - Greater London Authority (GLA)
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Higher Level Skills in London - Greater London Authority (GLA)
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Mapping the Higher Technical Landscape – The Gatsby Foundation
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Developing outcome measures for the Devolution of the Adult Education Budget – Greater Manchester Combined Authority
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Development of a Technical Industry Placement Model – Gatsby Foundation
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Local Impact of College based Higher Education – Education and Training Foundation
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Local Area Based Review Support – DfE
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Evaluation of Community Learning Pilots – DfE
Quality statement
As a Company Partner of the Market Research Society and registered to the prestigious international research industry standard ISO 20252, we apply the latest techniques of research and analysis to our work and adhere to strict codes of professional ethics. Key staff are Accredited researchers by the Office of National Statistics (ONS). If you would like to view a copy of our ISO 202052 statement of applicability click here.
Latest news and insights
HERA 2024/25 Year-End Apprenticeship Data Update
12th December 2025 by Ummehabiba Suleman
News & Events
MiDES R04 ILR 2025/26 Data Collection
4th December 2025 by Ummehabiba Suleman
News & Events
2024/25 Year-End MiDES Report Updates Now Available
21st November 2025 by Ummehabiba Suleman