National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER)
Researcher (Secondary English)
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Shape the future: join us as a Researcher (Secondary English) at NFER
Are you passionate about Secondary English and excited by the challenge of creating engaging texts and questions for paper and computer based assessments? We're seeking an enthusiastic Researcher (Secondary English) to join our team and contribute to impactful assessment projects in the UK and internationally. Using your English expertise, creativity and understanding of how students learn, you’ll help develop high-quality reading texts and assessment content for secondary learners. With a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work with a globally respected charity, this is your chance to make a lasting difference.
Salary: £37,000–£41,000 per annum (non-negotiable)
Annual Leave: Enjoy 42 days off each year: 30 days' annual leave, 4 paid closure days and 8 bank holidays.
Pension Contributions: 10% employer contributions
Family Support: Enhanced maternity/parental leave and paid compassionate leave
Flexible Working: Hybrid setup with a minimum of 1 day a month in our office at The Mere, Upton, with easy access to Windsor, Maidenhead, Reading, the Elizabeth Line and the M4.
Full-time (35 hours).
Job Description
As a Researcher (Secondary English), you’ll play a pivotal role in the development of high-quality English (reading, writing, literacy) assessments. You’ll focus on creating engaging texts written in a variety of styles and for different purposes such as short narratives, various non-fiction text types. You’ll also be contributing to the delivery of valid, reliable and engaging assessments that support educational decision-making and improved outcomes for learners.
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop assessment content that aligns with curriculum and assessment requirements.
- Contribute to high-quality bids and proposal preparation for a range of UK and international clients.
- Interpret statistical analyses of assessment data.
- Assist in conducting and analysing quantitative / qualitative research.
- Produce assessment content primarily for secondary English and, occasionally, primary English.
- Refine assessment materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency and fitness for purpose.
This role will involve occasional visits to schools and some international travel, as and when required.
Person Specification
Essential skills and experience:
- Degree in English*
- Ability to develop creative and engaging reading texts and accompanying reading items (both individually or in collaboration with other item writers).
- Ability to devise and refine authentic and engaging writing prompts.
- Ability to understand a range of different English curricula and to apply this insight in text and item / prompt development.
- Experience of teaching English in schools (or in FE) to at least higher GCSE level. (Experience of teaching A-Level English is desirable.)
- Good knowledge of English and an understanding of students’ different abilities in the subject, including the challenges.
- Experience of writing clearly and accurately for different purposes and audiences.
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*We would consider a related subject, such as Linguistics, if it is combined with experience of teaching English up to at least higher performing students at GCSE.
Other roles you may have experience of include: English teacher or English SEN Tutor
Why NFER?
At NFER, we are recognised globally for providing trusted research, resources and insights that drive meaningful change. By joining us, you’ll contribute to a mission that prioritises impact over profit, working in an environment where collaboration, flexibility, and inclusion are valued.
What we offer:
- A supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance from day 1.
- The chance to make a real difference in the education sector.
Application Process
We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and encourage you to apply early. Shortlisting will commence from Monday 12th October 2026.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require any adjustments, alternative document formats or accommodations at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact us at HR@nfer.ac.uk. Further details can also be found in the Job Information Pack.
If you’re ready to bring your skills and passion to a role that makes a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and start your journey with NFER.
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