Home > Research > Research associates > Programme structure

In this section

Programme structure

Research associateships normally take place over three to four terms and associates are expected to attend an induction period, normally spread across a maximum of six days, all of which are normally residential.

NCSL provides research associates with:

an induction programme and supervision of the enquiry
an opportunity for study, research and impact upon practice
a significant contribution towards the expenses of the secondment
the opportunity to contribute to College activities
access to the University of Nottingham library
a period of creative reflection as part of an associates' network

Types of associateships

Individual enquiries

Individuals apply for a research associateship to carry out a small-scale research project. Associates participating in this strand will plan, implement and evaluate an action-focused inquiry which investigates and develops models of practice that might be transferable to other school leaders.
Individuals may also apply on a half-term secondment basis which might particularly appeal to headteachers in a position to offer acting headship and other senior leadership roles for a limited period to leaders within their school.

Team enquiries

Some school and children centre leaders apply to work as a small team of Research Associates to carry out research. Applicants for this strand must contact the programme manager, prior to submitting and application. Please contact researchassociates@ncsl.org.uk.

Themed projects

The College will, from time to time, approach school leaders directly to invite them to help us with our work. This assistance might be , for instance, involvement in gathering case study data, or interrogation of data and follow-up of issues arising from a research project around a major strand of NCSL work. Details of this are advertised on the NCSL website as they occur.