Pupil school mobility: types, pathways and implications for education

This project will investigate pupil school mobility (PSM) in England.

Why is this important?

Many pupils change school outside of standard age-based structural transitions (e.g. from primary to secondary), some multiple times. PSM has been negatively associated with student attainment and a high level of PSM also represents a challenge for schools.

Despite the relatively widespread occurrence of PSM and the link to education disadvantage, little is known about the consequences of different types of mobility on children’s experiences and outcomes. There is also a lack of knowledge on the risk factors and protective mechanisms that might underpin effective policy or practical support for mobile pupils.

What does it involve?

This mixed methods project will address this evidence gap by identifying:

• types and pathways of PSM in England;
• reasons and risk factors for moves;
• and how different types and pathways of PSM influence educational achievement, experiences, and wellbeing. 

The research team will also consider differences in types and degrees of PSM across school and localities; the perceived impact of PSM on schools and communities; and how both policies and practice influence and address PSM.

The research will be completed in four stages:

1. Performing secondary analysis of the National Pupil Database and School Census to develop a typology capturing frequency and pathways of mobility.
2. Reviewing the policies and practices within 20 schools and 15 Local Authorities (LAs) through documentary analysis, interviews, and participatory workshops.
3. Conducting qualitative interviews with 30 families to explore their reasons for moving, experiences, and perspectives on supportive policies or practices.
4. Co-developing resources for families, schools, and LAs to promote more effective support. The resources will be piloted with participating LAs, schools, and families and will be evaluated to identify improvements and to inform further roll-out.

How will it make a difference?

Findings will be disseminated through seminars, reports, policy briefs, and academic articles. A pupil mobility infographic and the co-developed resources will be promoted to professional networks of educators, LAs, initial teacher training providers, providers of teacher professional development, and various networks that support families.