Qualitative case studies

Study C will examine qualitative case studies in a stratified sample of 30 secondary schools that have implemented a funded programme and that are prepared to take part in our research and to work together with us to develop and share expertise. The sample will be determined based on the data from study 1, with the extra criterion that there must be at least 100 participants in the programme (to ensure sufficient statistical distinctive capacity).

We will use the case studies to analyse the implementation of the programmes, the effective elements, and the theory of change of the catch-up and support programmes in more detail. The actual data collection will depend on the timeframe and duration of the interventions in the selected schools, but will consist at a minimum of interviews with the contact person prior to the programme, the programme leaders during the intervention, and the school leadership team on completion of the programme. We will also conduct observations during the programme (where possible), and we will organise a focus group with a panel of teachers and participating pupils during and on completion of the programme. We will therefore obtain an impression of the programme in each school, from design to implementation, along with qualitative observations of effective elements, context and limitations, and the extent to which the theory of change is valid.