Data linkage is one of the key features of Understanding Society, allowing researchers to explore features of life in the UK in greater depth. The Study has linkage to administrative datasets in key policy areas, as well as other external data sources. Data can only be linked if Understanding Society participants give their informed consent.
Scottish education linkage
A new dataset is now available to researchers, with linkage between Understanding Society and data from the Education Analytics Services (EAS) Division of the Scottish Government.
Education administrative records are collected separately in each of the four countries of the UK. Education linkage with Wales is underway and will be released separately.
The EAS Division plays a key and leading role in the collecting, analysis and publication of analytical evidence across the School Education and Young People sector in Scotland. They provide statistics on school education, including pupil and teacher information, and attainment and qualification results. In total, six different data files are available in this data release – attendance, SQA results, school leavers, pupil census data, additional needs and the nature of support.
Access the data
The linked data is available from the UK Data Service. Due to the sensitive nature of the data it is classified as Secure Access or Controlled data and can only be accessed through the UK Data Service Secure Lab. Access is restricted to researchers registered at a UK institution and researchers must have attended a Safe Researcher training course.
To help researchers make the best use of the dataset, you can find a User Guide on our website.
EducationFamily and householdsYoung people
