Doctoral students and staff from the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work (SSESW) attended our Annual Research Conference on 23 May at Queen’s University. Head of School, Professor Daniel Muijs, welcomed all to the beautiful Great Hall with a reminder about the importance of research across our disciplines:

“If we want to create a world that is more just, more equal, where people can thrive both in terms of wellbeing and in terms of their development, we need Social Scientific research to underpin that; research in Education so that we can create better schools, better teachers, more equality; research in Social Work so we can deal with all those issues that the most disadvantaged in our society face; and research in Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy so that we can create the theoretical underpinnings that are needed for a better society.”

Before handing over to the programme of presentations on research by SSESW staff and students, Daniel reminded participants that, while research and its impact are crucial, research also offers engaging and fascinating opportunities to tackle topical challenges, such as educational attainment, inclusion and socio-economic deprivation.

The notable number of PhD students making presentations at the conference were congratulated and welcomed as the future of research in the Social Sciences. They make a critical contribution to the School of SSESW research culture and very much enjoy the conference's opportunities to network and share their work to date.

Alison MacKenzie, Director of Postgraduate Research Studies, said:

“The range of doctoral research in the School of SSESW is rich and impressive. The conference included student presentations on advocacy for looked-after children in welfare services, the experiences of parents in supporting their children with special educational needs and disabilities against sexual abuse, and fairness in assessment practices in higher education for students with disabilities. PhD research is an essential and highly valued part of the School’s research culture.”