Introduction to the National Pupil Database

Join this online training course offering a more detailed introduction to the National Pupil Database (NPD), designed for those seeking maximum insight into its constituent datasets, delivered by ADR UK and the UCL Centre for Education Policy and Equalising Opportunities (CEPEO).

Delivered by expert users of the data, this course will provide new users with insight into the content of the National Pupil Database – the main education administrative dataset in England – and how it can be used to address a range of interesting and policy-relevant research questions.

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This event comprises three sessions. Participants are asked to attend both Sessions 1 and 2 wherever possible.

Session 1 will provide a high-level overview of the core datasets comprising the NPD, including the school census and attainment records. Participants will hear expert advice from experienced users of the data on how to get the most out of it, and learn about research exploiting different features of the data, including the implications of different school admissions policies and how the take-up of early education entitlements varies amongst children from different backgrounds.

Session 2 will explore some of the less well used elements of the data, including absences and exclusions from school and children’s social care data. We will discuss how researchers have used these data to address new questions, including the impact of school absences on educational attainment and the outcomes of children with experience of the care system.

This session will also include a brief overview of the application process, as well as opportunities to share experiences, ask questions and get feedback on the feasibility of research questions participants are considering.

In Session 3 (optional) participants will have the opportunity to book short one-to-one appointments to discuss questions relating to their own research questions or data applications. There will also be opportunities to ask questions during earlier sessions.

A more detailed itinerary will be made available to registered participants.

Event details

When:

• Session 1:09:30–12:30, Tuesday 10 February 2026
• Session 2: 09:30–11:30, Wednesday 11 February 2026
• Session 3 (optional): 13:00–14:00, Friday 13 February 2026

Participants are asked to attend both Sessions 1 and 2, wherever possible.

Where: Online

Cost: Free

Registration: Register your details on Eventbrite.