Summary
How local authorities should submit data for the alternative provision (AP) census.
The AP census is a statutory census of children placed by local authorities in non-state placed funded provisions, that takes place in January. Reading this guide will help you prepare for the 2026 AP census.
MIS software providers and users in local authorities should also read the technical and business specification.
For queries about submitting your data, contact us using our data collections service request form.
Contents
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Find out when you'll need to submit data to us.
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Find out which pupils are in scope for the alternative provision census.
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Details of what’s changed since the last census.
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Details about the information that you must submit.
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Information on accessing and using our data collection systems to send us your AP census data.
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Lists of codes you can use for the alternative provision census.
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The legislation, guidance and best practice to follow.