Kidscape Safer Schools (KSS) Database:FAQ

Do I need to be trained on the software?

Most probably not. The software has been designed with simplicity of use in mind - if you have basic computer skills then you can use the database, and trials of the software have shown that the installation, occasionally with the addition of a one-off supporting telephone call\email, was able to be completed successfully by school staff.

Alternatively, you can request a Kidscape member of staff to visit your school, where we can:

help you with the installation
explain in detail the various features of the database advise on how to implement the database within your school
communicate with relevant IT\technical staff
advise on possible integration with current systems

It sounds like a lot of data entry

Not all your pupils are going be included on the database, only those involved in bullying incidents.

Inputting a pupil's details is a “once only” event – after they are entered, they are available for use anywhere in the database, and can be amended if required.

The time constraints on teaching\administration\support staff in schools were recognised at an early stage in the development of the database. Consequently, it’s possible to enter a minimum amount of information for each pupil (around 5-6 data items) that will reduce data input, yet still provide enough information to enable KSS to produce meaningful reports.

What do I need to run it?

A PC, either standalone, networked or laptop, capable of running Microsoft Access, preferably versions 2000 or XP, although Access 97 can be catered for.

How do I know which version I have?

Open up Microsoft Access, go to the Help menu, and then choose About Microsoft Access. (Incidentally, this will work for the majority of Windows software).

What if I haven’t got Microsoft Access?

You can probably still use the database, but you will have to have what is known as the “runtime version”. This provides the system files enabling you to run the database. For more information, please contact kss@kidscape.org.uk

My school uses Macs\other computers\other office suites – can I use KSS?

You may be able to, dependent upon your computer setup – please contact kss@kidscape.org.uk for further details.

What security is there?

The database will sit behind whatever security your school IT team or LEA has provided. Additional security measures, should they be required, can be provided on an individual school basis.

Can it be used on a network?

KSS was originally developed to be used on a single computer acting as a central data collection point. It can, however be successfully network enabled, allowing a number of members of staff to input data. Please contact kss@kidscape.org.uk for more details.

How do I get the software?

Contact kss@kidscape.org.uk or ring Dave on 020 7730 3300

What type of reports can I print?

Some examples include:

Pupil details, including incidents in which a pupil has been involved, both as a bully and bullied, and events and actions taken regarding the pupil
Total bullying incidents individual pupils have been involved in
Monthly comparison of total of bullying incidents and school initiatives
Area\Postcode analysis
Gender\Ethnicity analysis
Location\Nature of incident analysis
Analysis of incidents by school year or whole school, over a certain time period

Custom reports can also be generated in consultation with Kidscape

Can it integrate with my current Pupil Information Management System?

If you have a proprietary system (such as SIMS, Phoenix etc) then the answer is “Not at the moment”. The diverse software, permissions to access data and commercial confidentiality in such systems currently prevent KSS being able to read from them. You can, however, possibly use export facilities in such systems to aid data entry into KSS. Contact kss@kidscape.org.uk for further details.

If you have an Information Management System that has been produced by your own staff within the school, then the answer is “Possibly”. Contact kss@kidscape.org.uk for further details.

What about updates?

Kidscape are keen to encourage feedback from participating schools. Any viable suggestions that are received will be considered for inclusion in minor updates of the software.

Minor updates to the software will be free and available to participating schools via the Kidscape website.

When major updates are available, all participating schools will be contacted with details and pricing information.

I'm interested in knowing more

You can buy online or fill out the online form and a representative of Kidscape will contact you

...helping to prevent bullying and child abuse 1985 - 2008

Kidscape Safer Schools