Centre for Research in English Language Learning & Assessment (CRELLA)

CRELLA provides scholars, examining boards, and government organisations with guidance and assistance in achieving the highest standards of research and development in English language learning and assessment. A major focus of CRELLA activity is research into the nature of English language proficiency and improved methodologies for measuring it. Members of CRELLA undertake research projects and consultancies in all aspects of language testing and evaluation. Currently, members are working on projects in the UK, Europe, East Asia, and the Americas.

The 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), the UK government’s assessment of research quality, ranked CRELLA’s research third out of 92 submissions in the area of English Language and Literature. The research environment at CRELLA was judged to be 100% world-leading, with 100% world-leading social and economic impact. Overall, 88% of CRELLA’s research publications were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.

We supervise students undertaking MPhil, PhD, and MA by research projects in language assessment and related areas of language learning.