What is an education record?

The meaning of an education record is set out in the Education (Pupil Information) (England) Regulations 2005.

Your education record is a document kept by your school. It includes personal information like your academic achievements, teacher reports, and letters between the school and your parents. Your school will also keep details like your name, address, and date of birth.

Can I see what is in my education record?

You have a right to look at your own education record and your parents might also be able to access this information on your behalf.

You might not be allowed to see your education record in some situations. For example, if the information could seriously harm your or someone else’s physical or mental health.

Please get in touch with us if you would like information on how to request your education record yourself.

Can my education record be shared?

Your personal information might be shared inside the school, like with a teacher, or outside the school, for example with the police or children’s services.

Your personal information is private, so your school should usually ask for your permission before sharing it. But sometimes, they might share it without asking if it’s really necessary, like if you are in immediate danger.

What If I am unhappy about how my personal information has been handled?

You or your parents can make a complaint to the school. For more information, see Complaints to schools.

Every school should have its own data protection policy that explains their legal rights and responsibilities about how your personal information is handled.

You can also contact the Information Commissioners Office.

Further help

There is government guidance that can be found here on data protection.

The Information Commissioners Office have a page on their website on education data.