• About this study

European Social Fund Cohort Study

About this study

Also known as the Skills for Jobs Study, this research evaluates the success of government work-related training schemes. It measures the impact of these schemes on trainees' job prospects or progression in a job, and looks for other positive outcomes such as trainees feeling more confident or motivated. The study has focused particularly on schemes funded by the European Social Fund.

Training schemes explained

Work-related training covers lots of different sorts of training. It can include help with interview skills, CV-writing and job searching. It can also cover training in basic skills, such as English, Maths and computing, as well as professional or vocational training for particular jobs.

Now find out more

First findings from the study were published on the European Social Fund's website. You can read more information about the study by visiting this site.

Potential policy impact

This study is conducted on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. Results from the study will help the Government and the European Commission to improve services and plan future employment and training programmes.

Methods

Participants were asked to take part in three waves of interviews. The first round of interviews took place in Summer 2009, and involved over 10,000 people. The second round of interviews were conducted in early 2010, and this time we spoke to over 7000 people. Most interviews took place over the phone. The third wave took place in January and March 2011 with 2,740 respondents.

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