Research Officer

We are looking for a Research Officer to play a central role in strengthening Estyn’s analytical and evaluative capability through high-quality research. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and supporting research activities across Estyn, delivering high-quality qualitative and quantitative analysis that informs inspection, thematic work and strategic decision-making.

Key tasks include, working with a Senior Research Officer to:

• Design and deliver thematic, longitudinal or mixed-methods research studies aligned to Estyn’s strategic priorities.
• Develop research questions, methodologies, tools and sampling approaches, drawing on best practice in educational and social research.
• Lead qualitative research components including interviews, focus groups and case studies; integrate findings with quantitative evidence provided by statisticians and analysts.
• Produce high-quality written outputs including thematic reports, evaluative summaries and strategic insights for senior leaders.
• Ensure research findings are valid, reliable and ethical, adhering to relevant standards including the Government Social Research (GSR) Code.
• Work with inspection teams to identify patterns or issues requiring deeper inquiry.
• Provide research-informed advice and background evidence to thematic project leads, including briefings on relevant literature, frameworks and international practice.
• Contribute to quality assurance of evidence used in thematic studies and the Annual Report.
• Scan the internal and external landscape to keep Estyn informed of relevant research, policy developments and emerging evidence.
• Produce regular internal updates that synthesise research and support inspector and organisational learning.
• Promote research-informed practice across Estyn through presentations, workshops and guidance materials.
• Collaborate with analysts to identify trends that warrant deeper investigation and to translate findings into accessible narratives.
• Build positive relationships with Welsh Government, partner organisations, academic institutions and other inspectorates to support evidence sharing and joint research activity.
• Contribute to Estyn’s long-term research strategy and annual research programme.

Duration: Permanent

Salary: £37,129 – £45,399

Closing date: 10:00am on 10 February 2026