Members of the Sheffield Institute of Education carry out research and knowledge exchange activity that aims to improve policy and practice locally, regionally and internationally. We work with academic partners within and outside Sheffield Hallam University, and with key partners including charities, educational settings and education systems leaders to do research with real-world social and economic impact and to translate research into education practice and policy. Across the Institute, we also work to improve student experience through research.

Our work focuses on three main areas:

Curriculum, pedagogy and learning

Our researchers have particular strengths in Language and Literacy, Mathematics and Science education, from Early Years through to Post-16.

Policy and professional learning

We have a strong focus on professional learning in all phases of education. Our researchers work with a wide range of education settings and systems leaders on research, professional development and curriculum development to improve practice. We also have strengths in education policy, particularly Higher Education policy, including research with a focus on widening participation in HE and social mobility.

Diversity and social justice

We research diversity and social justice from a number of perspectives, and our members have particular interests in gender, autism, disability, LGBTQ+, race and ethnicity.

Read about SIoE's research and knowledge exchange projects.