Social Justice in Education

Social Justice and Education Cluster

This cluster critically examines the intersections of education, inequality, and social justice. Our research addresses how structures of class, race, gender, sexuality, and geography shape educational experiences and constrain life chances—from early years through to adult and lifelong learning.

We collaborate with national and international organisations to challenge systemic barriers and expand access to meaningful educational opportunities. A particular focus is placed on the experiences of historically marginalised groups, including students from racially minoritised backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, and those living in contexts of socioeconomic deprivation. We are increasingly interdisciplinary with ongoing collaborations with criminology, linguistics, psychology and sociology

While much of our work addresses broader questions of equity and inclusion, several cluster members also investigate subject-specific outcomes in areas such as Mathematics, English, History, and Science. These disciplines are not treated as neutral but are explored as sites where social advantage or disadvantage is often reproduced—or contested.