Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI)

The Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) is an evidence-based oral language intervention for children in nursery and reception who show weakness in their oral language skills and who are therefore at risk of experiencing difficulty with reading. It is delivered over 30 weeks by teaching assistants in groups of three to four children.

The intervention was developed by a team from the University of York, who subsequently carried out a randomised control trial in 15 schools and feeder-nurseries across Yorkshire. After 30 weeks, the children who had received the intervention had improved expressive language skills, including the use of vocabulary and grammar. Their letter-sound knowledge and spelling also improved, indicating the foundations of phonics were in place.

Professor Margaret Snowling, Professor Charles Hulme and local practitioners discuss the benefits of the Nuffield Early Language Intervention programme.

Independent evaluation of NELI

The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) published its final evaluation of NELI at-scale in September 2023. This analysis is the culmination of almost 20 years of rigorous trials underpinned by high-quality research. It finds that four-and five-year-olds who received the targeted oral language intervention made an additional four months’ progress in language skills, compared to those who did not receive it. Children receiving free school meals benefited the most, with a seven-month boost to their language skills. Read more about the impact of NELI.

Our Lady of Muswell Primary School describe their experience implementing the Nuffield Early Language Intervention programme.

Using NELI at your school

If you have not registered and would like to access the programme, please contact primary.enquiries@oup.com or visit teachneli.org for more information.

NELI awards and recognition

In September 2018, the programme was awarded 3 stars in the Teach Early Years Awards. The awards aim to uncover the very best educational resources on offer to those supporting the learning and development of children aged 0-5. This year, more than 400 nominations were whittled down to 60 finalists. Shortlisted resources were judged on their effectiveness and value for money.

The intervention was awarded 3 stars in the Reception category. The category judge, Sue Cowley said: “The resource is sturdy and well made, and the package includes training for a TA and a teacher as well.”

In February 2019, the programme was awarded a 3+ evidence rating in an updated version of the Early Intervention Foundation (EIF) Guidebook. The EIF Guidebook provides information about early intervention programmes that have at least preliminary evidence of achieving positive outcomes for children.

Carmountside Primary Academy School describe their experience implementing the Nuffield Early Language Intervention programme.