Children’s cognitive development is affected by long-term poverty, but NOT by family instability.

Children from homes that experience persistent poverty are more likely to have their cognitive development affected than children in better off homes, according to research undertaken by Professor Ingrid Schoon and funded by the Nuffield Foundation.

Family instability, however, makes no additional difference to how a child’s cognitive abilities have progressed by the age of five, after controlling for family poverty, family demographics (e.g. parental education and mother’s age) and early child characteristics.

Current biofuels policies are unethical, says Nuffield Council on Bioethics

Current UK and European policies on biofuels encourage unethical practices, says a report by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics today following an 18-month inquiry. Policies such as the European Renewable Energy Directive are particularly weak when it comes to protecting the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding human rights violations in developing countries. They also include few incentives for the development of new biofuel technologies that could help avoid these problems.

Response to the National Curriculum Review

The Nuffield Foundation has submitted its response to the Government’s Review of the National Curriculum.

The Foundation is committed to improving mathematics and science education for all. This includes fostering increased participation and achievement by supporting pathways appropriate for learners’ current and future needs.

Summary of recommendations

Mediation in public law litigation

A new guide published by the Public Law Project will provide practitioners with practical advice on setting up mediation in public law litigation.

Protecting our best interests?

New Guide for Research and Innovation Grants

We have now published an updated version of our Grants for Research and Innovation: Guide for applicants. 

The Guide is for applicants to our four research and innovation programmes: