29 September 2026
Policy Institute to evaluate new GCSE exam centre for young people outside mainstream education
The independent evaluation will test whether the model could help reduce NEET rates
The Policy Institute's Evidence Development and Incubation Team will lead an independent evaluation of the Exeter Exam Centre, a University of Exeter initiative that helps young people outside mainstream schooling sit their GCSEs.
The exam centre was set up by Dr Luke Graham and Professor Anna Zimdars at the University of Exeter. It currently offers a limited number of pupils free access to GCSE maths and English exams, along with a place on a post-16 course at Exeter College. It is aimed at young people who might otherwise leave education without qualifications and risk becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training).
The evaluation – commissioned by TASO, the Centre for Transforming Access and Student Outcomes in Higher Education – is funded by the Evaluation Accelerator Fund, which is administered by the Cabinet Office and supports evaluation in priority areas of government policy.
Johnny Runge, Senior Research Fellow, The Policy Institute, King’s College London:
“We are pleased to be leading the independent evaluation of the Exeter Exam Centre. We look forward to testing the feasibility and scalability of this model so it can serve as a national blueprint for universities, colleges, and local authorities working together to improve access and opportunity for young people outside of mainstream education.“