An Introduction to the New Compulsory Standard DfES Absence Codes for Use from September 2006.

Whilst a number of the codes may match those that you are currently using there is potential for confusion with some of them.

In particular I would draw your attention to the following:

Common current usage	New DfES code
U- unauthorised absence	U- Lateness after register closed (unauthorised absence)
M-medical absence	M- medical/dental appointments
B- Dual registration	B- Educated off site (not dual registration)
Z- late before registers closed	Z- Pupil not yet on roll

It will be important that all school staff who have responsibility for completing registers or for attendance administration are familiar with the new codes.

Schools using the Pearson Phoenix Gold system will have the new codes installed automatically after this year's roll over process. ICT Solutions will be providing further information about this on their website and by e-bulletin.

The DfES has released helpful guidance on the use of the new codes.

Any schools not currently using their Management Information Systems to record attendance data are strongly recommended to be doing so from the start of the new academic year. The DfES school census will be collecting pupil level attendance data broken down by the new codes. If not stored electronically these records will have to be entered manually for each child.

Here is the new code list.

If you have any questions about the use of the new codes please contact: Val Creasy on 01603 223528 or Allan Turner on 01603 224102 or for technical issues for Pearson Phoenix schools contact: ICT Solutions Service desk on 0845 303 3003.