Census
Key notes that apply to both School Census and School Workforce Census returns:
The school census is a collection of pupil data from primary, secondary, special schools and pupil referral units, which takes place three times a year (Autumn, Spring and Summer).
Uploading the return on COLLECT
Once all the data is amended and updated on your Management Information System (MIS) – school needs to export this and upload to the DfE’s COLLECT portal.
Before you make the upload, please check the School Summary produced by your MIS which summarises the data in your return - ensure this is as should be expected for your school.
If you are waiting for the return to be “Validated” by COLLECT, please log off and log in again. Do not stay logged in to COLLECT when waiting for a change in "status of your return".
Once the return status is "Validated", schools must check the return for errors and queries (even if no errors and no queries are seen on your school's MIS.
[School Workforce process has further Collect checks including use of the overnight reports - see SWF "Process" guidance document]
Navigating your return on COLLECT
If the "Drill Up" links or "All Errors" button do not work in Collect then use "Compatibility mode" for Internet Explorer (version 8 or newer) users (if applicable): Remember you may need to use the "Compatibility mode" feature of your browser each time so that buttons in COLLECT work properly - see the guide fo rmore info
Errors, Queries and running data check reports
Schools are responsible to ensure they resolve any missing data and any associated errors and queries that may be introduced when you make your upload.
For SWF: Once all steps in the LA guidance to Collect "Process" document SWF-guidance document has been completed. Schools need to wait overnight before they run the "missing" contracts report.
Schools should add any notes as necessary and press "Submit" button (by the deadline set for Schools to make their return).
For full details of Tower Hamlets guidance for your census please see: