Many of the programmes and initiatives have been built on information garnered through research. Monies provide for contract research to perform literature reviews, to conduct evaluation of provision and to follow-up the effectiveness of programmes etc.. Some examples include:

• Sure Start is based on research that holistic services to very young children and their families in disadvantaged areas improves their life long development.
• A series of study support research papers were conducted by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER). The research considers the benefits, availability and use of out-of-school study support.
• EPPE project
• National survey by the Institute of Economic Research of flexible working arrangements.
• An independent "Review of the Future Role of Preschools and Playgroups" was published in September 1999 as "Tomorrow's Children".

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