Information returns guidance

Medway schools and academies are asked to complete information returns. The following information is provided to help staff with the process.

7 Zip programme for securing files

To ensure email security protocols all files must be encrypted and password protected using 7 Zip.

Download 7 Zip

Download 7 Zip guidance on how to use the programme.

Deadline dates

View the deadline dates of information returns by term for the academic year 2025 to 2026 below.

View school term dates.

Term Collection Day of count Deadline date Guidance
1 Autumn census Thursday 2 October 2025 Friday 3 October 2025 Census guidance
3 Spring census Thursday 15 January 2026 Friday 16 January 2026 Census guidance
5 Summer school census Thursday 21 May 2026 Friday 22 May 2026 Census guidance
6 Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Monday 6 July 2026 Monday 6 July 2026 Information will be emailed to the school office
6 Phonics (PHO) Wednesday 24 June 2026 Wednesday 24 June 2026 Information will be emailed to the school office
6 Key Stage Two (KS2) Friday 26 June 2026 Friday 26 June 2026 KS2 ARA
Summer holidays Key Stage Four (KS4) Thursday 20 August 2026 Thursday 20 August 2026 Information will be emailed to the school office
Summer holidays Key Stage Five (KS5) Thursday 13 August 2026 Thursday 13 August 2026 Information will be emailed to the school office