Action Tutoring and the EEF partner to evaluate impact of maths tutoring programme
Action Tutoring is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) to conduct a rigorous evaluation of its established maths tutoring programme for secondary school pupils facing disadvantage.
Working alongside leading research organisations, the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) and the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT), this project aims to provide robust evidence about the programme’s effectiveness.
The evaluation will employ a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design, considered the gold standard in research methodology. This approach will allow researchers to assess the impact of Action Tutoring’s small-group tuition on maths attainment and attitudes among pupils in Years 7, 10, and 11. The study will focus on pupils in state-maintained mainstream schools in England with at least 18% of pupils eligible for the Pupil Premium.
Evaluating for impact and improvement
Action Tutoring’s programme provides targeted support through trained volunteer tutors, utilising a curriculum developed by experienced educators. The evaluation will not only assess the overall impact of the programme but also explore potential strategies to further enhance its effectiveness. This “nimble trial” approach will allow for the testing of promising methods, such as those aimed at improving pupil engagement.
The partnership with the EEF underscores Action Tutoring’s commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous improvement. By rigorously evaluating its programme, Action Tutoring aims to contribute valuable insights to the education sector and inform best practices for supporting pupils facing disadvantage in maths. The findings from this study will be shared with schools, policymakers, and other stakeholders to maximise the reach and impact of effective tutoring interventions.
Evaluation timeline
The evaluation will follow a structured timeline, with data collection occurring over the course of the 2025-26 academic year and results expected to be published in summer 2027. This collaborative effort will involve participating schools, volunteer tutors, and the research teams at NFER and BIT.
Explore opportunities to participate: schools and volunteers
For schools interested in learning more about the evaluation, please visit our dedicated EEF evaluation webpage.
Individuals passionate about making a difference to the lives of young people and interested in volunteering as a tutor on an Action Tutoring programme can find more information on our volunteer page.
