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Explore the challenges & benefits of unschooling with our Research Simplified resource The Challenges & Benefits of Unschooling What’s it really like to unschool and why are more families choosing it? This Research Simplified resource explores findings from a global survey of 232 families who use unschooling - a form of home education where children learn through everyday life, rather than formal lessons or set curricula. The study looked at why families chose unschooling, how they define it, the benefits they’ve seen, and the challenges they’ve faced. Many reported more confident, curious and happy children, along with stronger family bonds and greater flexibility. But it also highlighted real difficulties, from social pressures to financial strain. 💡 This resource breaks down the research in a clear, accessible way - perfect for curious parents, supportive professionals, or anyone exploring self-directed learning paths. 🔍 Includes practical insights, takeaways, and key points to consider if you’re thinking about or supporting unschooling. 🔗 Want to explore the full study? (PDF) The Challenges and Benefits of Unschooling, According to 232 Families Who Have Chosen that Route

On this page you will find a list of publications and news updates from RECAP. Publications & News Publication : Article published with The Conversation on Home Education: Why are so many parents choosing it over mainstream school. Link Here Attended ChildCare Expo show, 2024, in London. Attended The Nursery World 2024 Show in London. Publication : Article accepted with SAGE Publications: 'Using Literature Reviews to Research Marginalized Groups: The Case of Research on Carers in Higher Education '. - (Open Access Link ) Attended the Mothers at Home Matter (MAHM) conference on Mothering Identity. Event presentation : Attended the SRHE conference in December 2023 and presented two papers: 'Doing the dirty work of academia? Ancillary staff in higher education' and 'Making connections between research and ancillary staff experiences in higher education'. Event presentation : 'Parent, Teacher...or both? The dual role of the home educator ' presented at Anglia Ruskin University PGR research conference. Media event: Spoke on the Teachers Talk Radio podcast : GCSEs as a Home-Educated Student. (Link to Podcast) Event presentation : Attended the BERA annual conference and presented work on ' Exploring the experiences of home-educated families’ access to GCSE level qualifications and the barriers they face.' Publication: Article accepted into SAGE Open journal: 'Teacher Perspectives on primary-secondary transition projects during the COVID-19 pandemic ' - ( Open Access link .) Home Education: Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges - presented at the ARU annual research conference: Research and Public Value. May 2023 Publication : Abstract accepted for the BERA annual conference in September 2023 - presenting author on the project: 'Exploring the experiences of home-educated families’ access to GCSE level qualifications and the barriers they face.' Publication : Article accepted into the International Journal of Educational & Life Transitions (IJELT): 'Widening access for Home-Educated Applicants to Higher Education Institutes. ' ( Open Access link ). Event presentation : Presented Home Education research at the launch of a university initiative, Safe & Inclusive Communities. Funding awarded at ARU for new project: 'Exploring the experiences of home-educated families’ access to GCSE level qualifications and the barriers they face.' Media event : Spoke on the Teachers Talk Radio Podcast - Home Education: The what, why and how. ( Link to podcast ) Publication : Article accepted into Review of Education journal: 'Through a glass, darkly: Gazing into the field of carers in academia. ( Open access link ) Publication: Article accepted for the Encyclopedia of Social Justice: Gender and Sexuality with my piece titled Homeschooling and Mothering Work. ( In production - link to follow ) Event presentation : Presented findings for 'Widening access for Home-Educated Applicants to Higher Education Institutes' at the Chelmsford Science Festival.

Discover how gaming can support learning in children with autism. Learn how gaming can enhance development at our Chelmsford center. Gaming to Support Learning in Children with Autism Can games like Minecraft help children with autism stay engaged and learn more effectively in the classroom? This resource breaks down a small-scale but insightful study that explored how gamification — using elements of games in teaching — supported young children with autism (ASD) in mainstream primary schools. The research looked at how popular characters, challenges, and rewards helped boost focus, motivation, and understanding. 🧩 From interviews with teachers to classroom observations, this study shows that when gaming is used thoughtfully, it can transform how some children experience learning - especially those who thrive on structure, creativity, and familiar interests. Inside, you’ll find tips for parents and teachers on how to use game-based strategies both at home and in school - plus what to watch out for. 💡 Perfect for anyone working with or raising neurodivergent children, or for educators looking to create more inclusive and engaging classrooms. 📎 Dive into the findings, share with your friends, and join us in making research easier to access, understand, and use. 🔗 Want to read the full survey? Pedagogy: Using Television Shows, Games, and Other Media in the Classroom - Google Books

Discover how home-educated students can gain university access. Explore pathways for home-educated students to succeed in higher education. Home-Educated Students and University Access More families than ever are choosing home education - but how well do university admissions systems support these students? We unpack this small study exploring how easy (or difficult) it is for home-educated young people in England to apply to university. It looks at whether current processes are fair, inclusive, and transparent for those who’ve followed non-traditional learning paths. Through interviews with students, university staff, and a review of admissions policies, the study highlights some real challenges - from missing guidance to confusing forms - and offers practical tips for families and institutions alike. 📚 Whether you're a parent, student, educator, or policymaker, this is your starting point for understanding how we can make university access fairer for all. 📎 Dive into the findings, share with your friends, and join us in making research easier to access, understand, and use. 🔗 Want to read the full survey? Widening Access for Home-Educated Applicants to Higher Education Institutions in England

We have found that many families and parents do not know the basics of first aid and do not really know what to do if they come across an accident or serious illness. Learning these basic life-saving skills is easy with the ProTrainings Family First Aid course. ​ You never know when something could happen to someone in your family, so learning now will prepare you to deal with an emergency situation should it arise. Family First Aid Enquire today Fun, interactive sessions for the whole family tailored to YOUR needs and delivered in the comfort of your home or community setting. How does it work? First Aid sessions designed with you in mind. With qualifications in child development and early years education, first aid trainer Lucie will tailor the delivery of your course to suit both you and your children. With basic essentials covered as standard, you will then be able to choose your additional elements to create your bespoke first aid package. Have a family member with an allergy? Why not add EpiPen training. Someone in the family play a lot of sports? Better add strains & sprains or fractures & dislocations. Maybe you are diabetic or have someone who has low blood pressure? Fainting will be useful for your child to know how to respond to. We really can make this work for your family. Every session includes: Calling 999 Recovery position Choking Assessing for danger Keeping calm & emotions CPR Then you can add additional elements such as bleeding, broken bones, head injury & anaphylaxis according to your family needs. The Full list of additional elements are available to view below. The basic session gives a broad overview of the key things children should know about first aid. This can be done as a standalone session without any additional elements if required. How do I book? Message us via our contact page and we will be in touch! To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Additional Elements Minor injury treatment This session includes treatment for small cuts, bruises, grazes, splinters & stings. Serious bleeding & nosebleeds This session covers types of bleeding, how to treat a serious bleed, how to do a capillary refill (when checking your dressings), what to do in the event of a nosebleed & how to apply a bandage & sling dressing. Asthma & Anaphylactic Shock This session covers what asthma is and how to support someone who may be having an asthma attack. It also includes the signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock and how to use an auto-injector (using a trainee EpiPen and Jext pen). Cardiac Arrest & AED Training This session covers what a cardiac arrest might look like, what you should do if you think someone is having a cardiac arrest & how to use an AED. Dislocations & Fractures This session covers the difference between a fracture and a dislocation, the different types of fractures and how to treat them. Strains & Sprains This session covers what the difference between a strain and a sprain is and how to treat both using the RICE method. Fainting, Seizures & Head Injuries This session includes treatments for epileptic seizures covering what the signs and symptoms are and how to support them. It also includes general fainting, what to do if you see someone faint. and how to deal with a head injury. Burns & Scalds This session covers the types of burns you may come across, how to assess how bad it is and what the best treatment for it is.

Discover how 'Research Simplified' at our Chelmsford Education Research Center is enhancing access to research in easy to understand ways At RECAP, we believe that trusted, evidence-based information should be accessible to everyone -especially parents, carers, and educators making everyday decisions for children and young people. Research Simplified is here to bridge the gap between academic research and real life. We take high-quality studies and translate them into clear, practical insights that are easy to understand and apply. No jargon, no confusion -just straightforward explanations rooted in evidence. Whether you're looking to support your child's learning, wellbeing, or development, this section helps you stay informed, confident, and empowered. UK Parent Survey: Key Findings Home-Educated Students and University Access Gaming to support learning in children with Autism What are UK parents really facing right now? We’ve taken one of the largest parent surveys in the UK - conducted by Parentkind and YouGov - and broken it down into clear, bite-sized insights. More families than ever are choosing home education - but how well do university admissions systems support these students? We unpack this small study exploring how easy (or difficult) it is for home-educated young people in England to apply to university. Can games like Minecraft help children with autism stay engaged and learn more effectively in the classroom? This resource breaks down a small-scale but insightful study that explored how gamification - using elements of games in teaching - supported young children with autism (ASD) in mainstream primary schools. Inclusion in the Classroom RSHE for Home Educating Families The Challenges & Benefits of Unschooling What does it really mean to feel included at school and what gets in the way? This resource simplifies a rich study that explored how secondary school students and teachers experience inclusion during lessons. How do families who home educate approach Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) and what support do they need? This resource breaks down a UK-based study that explored how home-educating parents teach important RSHE topics at home. What’s it really like to unschool - and why are more families choosing it? This Research Simplified resource explores findings from a global survey of 232 families who use unschooling

RECAP Consultancy and Research works with clients to provide research consultancy and advice on projects as well as delivering specific aspects of research such as survey design, conducting fieldwork, analysing data and evaluation. RECAP Consultancy and Research works with clients to provide research consultancy and advice on projects as well as delivering specific aspects of research such as survey design, conducting fieldwork, analysing data and evaluation. Project Consultancy Do you have a research project idea but are unsure on how to progress to make it a reality? Do you know what you want to achieve but need some advice on specifics? Do you need advice and guidance on how to achieve impact and improve effectiveness with your research? RECAP can provide a range of services from one off meetings to create a project plan, to regular scheduled meetings to keep a project on track, depending on your individual needs. Contact us for a bespoke quote. Project Evaluation At RECAP we can work with your team to evaluate an ongoing, or completed, project. We will look at a number of things to help us evaluate the effectiveness and impact of your research project including timeline, the relatability of your data collection tools and the data you have gathered, whether your aims have been met and potential suggestions for improved engagement and impact. Contact us for a bespoke quote Fieldwork RECAP can offer help to design and conduct your fieldwork, based on the intended desired outcome of your research. Whether you need help designing your fieldwork,or you are looking for an individual to save you time and conduct the research for you, RECAP can help! Survey Design Interview/ Focus Group question design Conducting Interviews / Focus Groups Planned Observations Contact us for a bespoke quote. All quotes will include an initial meeting to discuss research aims and key information to assist with fieldwork design. Packages We also offer packages that encorporate multiple aspects of the consultancy and research work we provide. If you would like to book a FREE 30 minute meeting with us to discuss your research needs, please contact us, indicating your availability and we will contact you with a selection of dates/times. Data Analysis Have you collected data but are not sure what to do with it now? Maybe you do not have time to convert your data into meaningful, easy to understand outcomes and recommendations. We can work closely with your research team to understand the aims and intended outcomes of your research and assist with either giving advice on analysis strategies or working with the team to analyse the data together. Contact us for a bespoke quote All quotes will include an initial meeting to discuss research aims and key information to assist with analysis. First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Here at RECAP we really value the importance of reading and writing.  Not just for children, but for adults too. Having an opportunity to escape from everyday life into a fictional world with characters you can identify is just magical. Currently, we have two fiction novels available in both ebook and paperback versions. Please see below for more information and links.  Here at RECAP we really value the importance of reading and writing. Not just for children, but for adults too. Having an opportunity to escape from everyday life into a fictional world with characters you can identify is just magical. Currently, we have two fiction novels available in both ebook and paperback versions. Please see below for more information and links. In addition to our fiction titles, we are looking to expand our library to include non fiction books to help familes and those working with children, in addition to a range of children's fiction. These are currently being worked on and we hope to share them with you sometime soon. In the meantime, please feel free to explore our fiction titles below and let us know what you think! The First Time Mums' Club A gorgeous, heartwarming debut for fans of Giovanna Fletcher, Paige Toon and The Unmumsy Mum! ‘This book captured my heart’ Bestselling author Christie Barlow Meet Pippa… After years of trying and a failed IVF attempt, Pippa is thrilled to see two little lines appear on a pregnancy test. Finally a precious baby to call her own. This is all Pippa has ever wanted…if only husband Jason could show just a little excitement. Imogen… A baby is the icing on the cake for Imogen and Alice – proof that their love for each other can overcome any obstacle. But when Imogen starts receiving malicious texts, it's clear that not everyone is thrilled about the girls' good news. And Ellie… A drunken one-night stand and Ellie's life is ruined! Pregnant, jobless and the relationship with her best friend, Chris, over- forever. Because Chris just happens to be the father of Ellie's baby…and potentially the love of her life! For these first time mums the road to motherhood is bumpier than most! Buy Here Buy Here Mums Just Wanna Have Fun ‘Heartwarming and poignant’ SUN Meet Nancy… Single mum Nancy will do anything for her little boy. Jack’s autism makes life difficult at times, but she’s determined to ensure he lives the best life possible. So, when her best friend Harriet suggests a holiday to Ibiza, Nancy is torn: will Jack cope with the change in routine…will she? And Harriet… Workaholic mum Harriet convinces Nancy it’s the break they all need. A chance to have some fun with the kids, away from the stresses of normal life. And she’s determined to switch off her laptop, ignore her inbox, and just have fun with her kids for seven whole days… Cocktails and kids’ club – what could go wrong? Ibiza is beautiful, but Jack struggles with everything, Harriet refuses to put her laptop away, and Nancy begins to think she’s made a huge mistake. And then Nancy meets Cameron and his young son, Aiden and discovers that sometimes the best fun happens when you least expect it… Can these two single-mum’s swap their mummy guilt for sunglasses and sangria?

Discover key findings from the UK Parent Study, part of the Research Simplified series. Explore insights from the UK Parent Study today. UK Parent Study - Key Findings What are UK parents really facing right now? We’ve taken one of the largest parent surveys in the UK - conducted by Parentkind and YouGov - and broken it down into clear, bite-sized insights. This resource highlights the real challenges families are navigating: 💰 Money worries and school costs 🧠 Mental health struggles 🕒 Time pressures 📱 Screen time battles 🏫 Feeling unsupported by schools You’ll also find out what matters, why it matters, and, most importantly, what you can do next. Whether you’re a parent looking for answers or an organisation seeking to understand families better, this is a great place to start. 📎 Dive into the findings, share with your friends, and join us in making research easier to access, understand, and use. 🔗 Want to read the full survey? The National Parent Survey 2024

This course is aimed at anyone who requires a course in AED use. Learning AED skills is becoming more important with the increase in the numbers of units in the community and workplace. They are easy to use with little training and make a real difference in the chance of survival to someone in cardiac arrest. If you have already completed any other first aid course, you will understand the importance of the prompt use of an AED, making this an ideal course to develop your skills. AED Training Enquire today This course is aimed at anyone who requires a course in AED use. Learning AED skills is becoming more important with the increase in the numbers of units in the community and workplace. They are easy to use with little training and make a real difference in the chance of survival to someone in cardiac arrest. If you have already completed any other first aid course, you will understand the importance of the prompt use of an AED, making this an ideal course to develop your skills. To renew your qualification you can simply complete the same course again. *prices correct as of June 2024 and are quoted for courses booked within the Basildon, Billericay, Braintree, Brentwood, Chelmsford, Colchester, Wickford, Witham and immediately surrounding areas. Locations outside of this area will incur an additional charge* Also offered: AED Awareness & AED Familiarisation courses. These are shorter courses that just cover the basics. 1 Duration AED level 2 is delivered face to face over 3-4 hours. This can also be added on to other First Aid packages and will subsequently be reduced to 1-2 hours, due to the additional information already being covered in the First Aid module. AED Awareness: 1-2 hours AED Familiarisation: 1 hour 2 How are you assessed? Assessment for this course is carried out in two ways: skills assessment and end of course exam. Throughout the course your instructor will observe learners as they carry out skills assessments. These are completed by participating in demonstrations and using specialised first aid equipment. At the end of the course the instructor will provide learners with a QR code (or link) which will take the learner to a short online exam. Upon completion, learners will be qualified and will receive a digital certificate. 3 Awarding Body Vocational Training Qualifications (VTQ) are awarded through ProTrainings. 4 Price AED Level 2: £75.00 AED Awareness: £35.00 AED Familiarisation: £18.00 All prices quoted are per person

The ProTrainings First Aid at Work Level 3 (VTQ) qualification (FAW) is ideal for most businesses whose risk assessment has identified that they require a fully trained first aider for their workplace. All courses are delivered, evaluated and quality assured to meet the new guidelines and meet the requirements of the First Aid at Work (First Aid) regulations 1981 and subsequent including the 1st October 2017 changes. First Aid at Work (FAW) Level 3 Enquire today The ProTrainings First Aid at Work Level 3 (VTQ) qualification (FAW) is ideal for most businesses whose risk assessment has identified that they require a fully trained first aider for their workplace . All courses are delivered, evaluated and quality assured to meet the new guidelines and meet the requirements of the First Aid at Work (First Aid) regulations 1981 and subsequent including the 1st October 2017 changes. The SIA will accept this training certificate for those seeking employment in the door supervision and security guard sector. All our first aid courses fully meet the UK and European Resuscitation Council Guidelines 2021 as per the HSE requirements. ProTrainings Vocational Training Qualifications (VTQ) are fully recognised by the HSE as Trade Body Qualifications. This course must be at least 18 contact hours and run over a minimum of 3 days and the certificate is valid for 3 years. We also offer Re-Qualification and Refresher training, as well as tailored FAW for those working in a forestry environment or a school setting. For more information, please contact us. *prices correct as of June 2024 and are quoted for courses booked within the Basildon, Billericay, Braintree, Brentwood, Chelmsford, Colchester, Wickford, Witham and immediately surrounding areas. Locations outside of this area will incur an additional charge* 1 Duration First Aid at Work (FAW) level 3 is delivered face to face over 3 days, a total of 18 hours learning time. This can be reduced to 2 days face to face and 1 day online when combined with the blended learning option. 2 How are you assessed? Assessment for this course is carried out in two ways: skills assessment and end of course exam. Throughout the course your instructor will observe learners as they carry out skills assessments. These are completed by participanting in demonstrations and using spcialised first aid equipment. At the end of the course the instructor will provide learners with a QR code (or link) which will take the learner to a short online exam. Upon completion, learners will be qualifed and will recevie a digital certificate. This will be valid for 3 years. 3 Awarding body Regulated qualifications (RQF) are awarded through TQUK. 4 Price 3 day face to face course (18) hours: £270.00 per person Blended option (2 days face to face and one day online): £200.00 per person For group bookings please contact us as group discount rates apply.

Discover more about our Education Research Center in Chelmsford, UK. Learn about our mission and values. Explore our About Us page today! About Us At RECAP Ltd, our mission is to empower parents, carers, teachers, and professionals with trusted, evidence-based knowledge that supports every stage of a child's education, development, and wellbeing. We aim to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world practice, making knowledge accessible, practical, and transformative for families and communities. We deliver high-quality information and support through a variety of platforms, including videos, blogs, podcasts, infographics, articles, books, and both face-to-face and online training. Our content is designed in flexible, bite-sized formats, allowing individuals to access learning easily, at their own pace and convenience. RECAP Ltd is committed to breaking down barriers to knowledge. By making research accessible and relatable, we help promote social mobility and empower individuals to grow in confidence, wellbeing, and contribution to society .At RECAP Ltd, we’re not just sharing knowledge - we’re creating lasting change for families, professionals, and future generations. Our Mission Statement Empower To empower parents and carers with access to trusted, evidence-based knowledge that supports every stage of their child's education, development, and well-being. Impact To amplify the reach and real-world impact of academic research by creating direct pathways between researchers and the families who can benefit from their work. Nurture To nurture and elevate small and medium-sized businesses that offer reliable, valuable, and family-centred services, resources, and products. Transform To break down barriers between research and real life, transforming cutting-edge insights into practical support that strengthens families and communities. Lucie Wheeler RECAP Founding Director , First Aid Instructor & Researcher Lucie is a researcher, PhD student, first aid instructor, author and mother. She is incredibly passionate about sharing research and information to parents, carers, schools/settings and professionals, within the fields of education, child development and parenting. After spending 12 years working in mainstream primary schools, preschools, nurseries, SEND schools and parent & toddler groups, she moved into researching in Higher Education in 2020, and launched RECAP Ltd in 2023. Qualifications : PhD - in progress MA Early Childhood Education BA Early Childhood Professional Studies First Aid at Work Instructor AED Instructor Paediatric First Aid Instructor TQUK Level 3 Award in Education & Training (RQF) Mental Health First Aider DBS Approved Contact me