Research

The research team conducts both qualitative and quantitative research independently and in partnership with other institutions. Projects are diverse, although priority is given to work that enhances the knowledge base behind the organisation's ongoing policy activities and programme development. We also undertake commissioned research.

Recent projects

Shelter Scotland (2010-2011)

Having a Say at School: research on pupil councils in Scotland (2006-2009)

Truth and consequences for the Kibble boys (2008-2009)

Completed projects

This link takes you to a database of completed research projects.

Published research

This link takes you to published research for purchase or free download

Shelter Scotland (2010-2011)
Shelter Scotland commissioned Children in Scotland to undertake research into ways in which the education sector can help to minimise the impact of homelessness on children’s learning. A researcher consulted with children and parents affected by homelessness and professionals within the housing and education sectors. The findings were combined with the good practice and lessons learned through Shelter Scotland’s Keys to the Future programme to create the content for the website www.homelesschildren.org.uk

Having a Say at School: research on pupil councils in Scotland (2006-2009)

This three year, in-depth look at pupil councils in Scotland was researched by Children in Scotland and the University of Edinburgh, with funding from the Big Lottery Fund.

Having a Say at School (HASAS), the largest Scottish study of pupil councils ever undertaken, identifies ways to boost pupil council effectiveness including establishing a fair process for selecting representatives, enhancing good two-way communication, and ensuring continuity from year to year – with the biggest influence on success being the attitude of staff and adult advisors.

The study provides the first evidence ever on the realities of pupil councils nationwide, and is based on research in every secondary, independent and special school in Scotland, a large sample of primary schools, and all 32 local authorities.

Results show pupil councils differ in how they are set up and run, but that they can be a vital link in the chain of decision making within a school, giving students a real voice in improving school life.

To find out more about this research, visit the project website: www.havingasayatschool.org.uk

Truth and consequences for the Kibble boys (2008-2009)

The Kibble Education and Care Centre leaders asked Children in Scotland to find out more than is currently known about what is true in terms of the lives of Kibble participants before, during and after their time in Kibble’s care.

Kibble is committed to doing an even better job of helping the boys and young men entrusted to its care. Knowing what is really true about these individuals can assist in understanding what changes should be made in the future.

Benefits for Kibble include better assessment/placement, improvement to policies, practices and programmes and improved outcomes for Kibble participants. Children in Scotland also hopes that this research will influence the policies and practices of local authorities and the Scottish Government.

In summary, Children in Scotland looked at:

-What information about the boys’ lives already exists and is used

-What additional information could be useful

-Kibble’s assessment and placement processes

-How the boys can express their views at Kibble and in what way their views are heard and heeded

-How life has developed for those who left Kibble in recent years