Overview

We undertake research and evaluation projects using quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods. Our expertise covers the whole project cycle, from research design (including theory of change frameworks), undertaking the research (e.g. surveys, interviews, focus groups, etc.), analysing data and reporting.

Services

We offer a range of research and evaluation services and employ methods such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observational studies, social media analysis, mobile ethnography, and the analysis of existing data (such as data from surveys already administered, transcripts of interviews already undertaken, etc.). We can be involved in any stage of research and evaluation projects, or undertake the entire project. The analysis of free text data (such as comments from open-ended survey questions) is also a service we offer and we can do this using manual methods (i.e. by our researchers reading and coding each comment) or via automated / semi-automated text analysis using appropriate software.

We also offer consultancy services such as advice on questionnaire design, or on research and evaluation strategies.

As experienced evaluators we also offer process and impact evaluations for clients who are introducing or have introduced new programmes or initiatives, we can evaluate both the implementation and impact of such initiatives. We are also highly experienced at undertaking evaluations based on the theory of change approach.

About

I have worked as a researcher and evaluator for over 25 years. Before establishing Seymour Research in 2012 I previously worked in research roles for the University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire County Council and the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER). I have a PhD from the University of Nottingham's School of Education, a Master's in Social Research Methods and my first degree was in Social Policy (Royal Holloway, University of London).

While much of my work is in the field of education, I also work for healthcare and third sector clients. Previous clients are wide ranging and include many universities, schools and multi-academy trusts, charities (such as Citizens Advice and Thrive), the Education Endowment Foundation and clinical commissioning groups. I frequently collaborate with other researchers and evaluators and find this is a very enjoyable and rewarding way to work.

Outside of work I am a very keen runner having done several marathons and numerous half marathons. I'm lucky enough to live in South Devon so also enjoy lots of sea swimming (even throughout the winter), and in the warmer months try to combine a run with a dip in the sea at the end!