Complete the school census

• From: Department for Education
• Published: 30 July 2019
• Updated: 7 October 2022, see all updates

Guidance for schools and local authorities on what data we need and how to submit it.

Software suppliers should read the:

• 2022 to 2023 technical specification
• 2022 to 2023 summary reports

For queries about submitting your data, contact us using our data collections service request form.

• Census dates

  Find out when the school census will open for each term and what to do in unusual circumstances.

• Changes for 2022 to 2023

  Any changes to the information we ask for or how it should be provided since the 2021 to 2022 academic year.

• Which schools and pupils to include

  Find out which schools and pupils are in scope for the school census.

• Data items 2022 to 2023

  Guidance about every piece of information you need to send us in autumn 2022, spring and summer 2023.

• Generate and submit your return

  Information on accessing and using our data collection systems to send us your school census data.

• Check your data

  Information on validating your data, resolving errors and checking any funding reports that use your school census return.

• Find a school census code

  List of codes to use when completing your school census.

• Statutory requirement, data sharing and regulations

  The legislation, guidance and best practice to follow.