National Institute for Christian Education Research (NICER)
Our aim is to develop world-leading research in areas of interaction between Christianity, other worldviews and education.
We promote research to inform the contribution of faith to the public understanding of education. We support and conduct research and development in Christian schooling, spiritual development, religious education, faith development and worldview in education.
We enhance evidence research-based policy decision-making in Church and faith-based national education policy. We collect and analyse research data on Church and faith-based educational and training institutions, particularly on admissions, academic performance, religious education and inspection reports.
The Institute has a research agenda that includes: the mission integrity of Church schools; their impact on Church and society; how they contribute to the good of society; their distinctive and authentic principles in education; the kind of leaders needed for Church schools, and their impact on students. It seeks to research the kind of curriculum needed for a flourishing society in which faith and religious life are positively encouraged, visible in and contributing towards public life and the common good.