Implementation of Opportunity Areas: An Independent Evaluation

This document describes an evaluation of the Opportunity Areas (OA) programme, designed to improve social mobility in 12 socio-economically challenged UK districts by focusing on educational outcomes. Conducted by the National Foundation for Educational Research, the evaluation primarily assesses the programme's implementation, managed by partnership boards and the Department for Education, and involving diverse sector stakeholders. The evaluation reveals a high level of enthusiasm and commitment among stakeholders, with a focus on academic improvement, but also identifies challenges such as stakeholder engagement, the complexity of implementing certain priorities, and sustainability. The results show early indicators of positive change, yet suggest the need for clearer monitoring and evaluation processes. Recommendations include extending the programme's duration, refining delivery plans, and enhancing communication and stakeholder involvement to ensure the OA programme's effectiveness and long-term success. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: October 2018

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes