School Census - 2009 Spring Census

The DCSF requires all Schools to complete their 2009 Spring Census return on Thursday 15^th January 2009. Please ensure that your School Census file reaches the Information and Research Centre not later than 19^th January 2009. It is important that your file is received on time so that our Finance department can calculate your Budget Share.

Files should be sent using Anycomms (AVCO) data transfer system. Any school unable to use this should contact Gill Williamson on 01603 222355.

Main changes for School Census 2009:

Introduction, collection and validation of a pupil's unique Learner number (ULN) for pupils over the age of 13. Schools delivering 14-19 diplomas will have to hold this in their systems.
Introduction, collection and validation of Funded Hours accessed by three and four year olds.
Introduction, collection and validation of Parent/Carer contact details.
Ethnicity,Ethnicity Source and Language should now be collected for those pupils no longer on Roll.
Boarder status should now be collected for those pupils no longer on roll.

What can I do now
It is essential that you read the full DCSF guidance, which is available on Teachernet.

Phoenix Gold Schools only

You should by now have received the new CD version of Phoenix Gold (v1.45). This provides the software for you to undertake the School Census in January. If you have not yet received the CD you will need to contact ICT Solutions on 0845 303 3003.

Please remember to check the ICT Solutions website for updates before completing your return. The Phoenix Gold guidance notes for completion can also be found here. It is recommended you undertake a dry run before census day to identify any potential problems.

E1 Schools
Your software has already been updated for the January Census. Separate guidance notes are being prepared for you and should be available on the ICT Solutions website by the end of term. Again it is recommended you undertake a dry run before census day.

Non-Phoenix Schools

Schools are requested to use their School Census compliant software to produce their School Census return. Non Phoenix Schools will need to contact their appropriate support team.

Could all non-e1 schools please also remember to do your January 2009 LA return as usual.

Links
School and Pupil Census Userguide for Phoenix Gold
School and Pupil Census Index
January Census
Teachernet - Data Collection