Schools statutory data collection from the Children's Commissioner

I am writing to inform you that as Children’s Commissioner for England, I have launched a survey to capture up-to-date information about children’s experiences of school, to celebrate the achievements of schools in supporting their pupils and drive improvements in the support available across England.

I would be grateful if all schools and colleges can complete this survey by Friday 20 December 2024.

Under Section 2F of the Children Act 2004, I have statutory powers to collect data relating to children from any public sector organisation in England, meaning it is compulsory for all schools to provide the information requested. The survey is open for completion now and more information can be found on the Children's Commissioner website

I have made it my mission since taking up the role three years ago to listen to children and give their voices and views a platform. Based on extensive engagements with children across the country, including two of the largest ever surveys of children – The Big Ask and The Big Ambition, I have set out a positive vision of what childhood should look like, where children feel their views are important and listened to by the adults who make decisions in their lives.

With a new government, this is now the moment to find out the state of the nation of support in schools. The survey asks about support offered to pupils and their families, staff roles and responsibilities, and the characteristics and vulnerabilities of pupils.

I will publish overall findings, not naming any individual schools, and will take them to the new Government, to inform future policy and help all those working with children to make schools supportive environments for everyone to learn and thrive.

Yours sincerely,

Dame Rachel de Souza
Children’s Commissioner for England