EEF Research School

Alexandra Park Primary School is proud to host one of only 32 Research Schools across the country. As part of the Research School Network, we are funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), an independent charity dedicated to improving educational outcomes for children and young people, particularly those facing disadvantage. 

The mission of the Research School aligns closely with our own values and ambitions. We are committed to ensuring that the decisions we make are informed by the best available evidence, helping us to provide the highest quality education for every child. Through our work, we support schools, teachers and leaders to use research effectively to improve teaching, learning and outcomes for all pupils. 

Over many years, Alexandra Park has developed a strong evidence-informed approach to school improvement. This commitment was recognised by Ofsted, who noted: 

"Leaders have a strong vision for the school and ensure that all decisions are based on the findings of rigorous research." 

As part of the Greater Manchester Education Trust (GMET), we now draw upon the expertise, experience and perspectives of a diverse family of schools. This collaboration strengthens our work as a Research School, allowing us to learn from colleagues across different contexts and phases while sharing effective practice across the trust and the wider region. 

The Alexandra Park Research School is led by Claire Williams, Deputy Headteacher and Director of the Research School, alongside Jen Beckensall, Assistant Director, who is based at Whalley Range High School. Together, they lead the Research School's work across Greater Manchester and the North West, supporting schools to engage with and apply evidence-informed approaches that improve outcomes for children and young people. Claire brings over 20 years of experience working across a range of schools and educational phases and is passionate about improving outcomes for all pupils, particularly those facing disadvantage. She supports teachers and leaders in areas including effective professional development, understanding disadvantage and the successful implementation of evidence-informed practice. Jen contributes extensive expertise in teaching and learning, professional learning and the effective use of research to drive positive change in schools.  

Our work is supported by a highly skilled team of leaders, teachers and Evidence Leads in Education who see research as an integral part of improving teaching and learning. We have extensive experience in approaches such as Lesson Study, Teacher Research Groups and collaborative professional enquiry, all of which play a vital role in developing classroom practice and improving outcomes for children. 

Together, we are committed to bridging the gap between research and classroom practice, ensuring that educational evidence is translated into meaningful improvements for children, teachers and school communities. 

If you would like to find out more about our work, the Research School Network, or opportunities to work with us, please contact claire.williams@alexandraparkprimary.uk.