National pupil database - improved arrangements for requesting access to data

The national pupil database (NPD) forms a significant part of the evidence base for the education sector.

Over the last ten years extracts of the data have been shared under strict terms and conditions with named bodies and third parties who require data for research into the educational achievement of pupils. This has provided invaluable evidence on educational performance to inform independent research, as well as studies commissioned by the Department.

We want to encourage more third parties to use the data for these purposes and produce secondary analyses of the data.

From 30 July 2012 interested parties can request extracts of data from the NPD through an improved application process accessed through the Department website.

For further information on NPD or to apply to access extracts of the data please see the national pupil database page in the data and statistics section.