Updates
08/039: Use of the ESF Short Record ILR return in 2008/09 and future years
Originally published 20 June 2008
The information authority is publishing this communication to clarify the purpose and use of the ESF Short Record (ESF SR) ILR return from 2008/09 onwards.
The ESF Short Record is provided for use by providers which are involved only in one or more ESF projects and do not deliver any mainstream learner responsive or employer responsive funded learning provision. An ILR ESF Short record return can be returned either via a batch file transmission to the data service or by direct entry by the provider into the Provider On Line system (POL). A provider should not be asked to use the ESF short record if it sends ILR data for mainstream provision. In any case the use of the ESF SR return should be agreed by both the provider and the local LSC.
The start of the new ESF 2007-13 programme has resulted in a significantly reduced requirement for data needed to support ESF programmes and so the number of required ESF fields in the ILR has been reduced. It is anticipated that a distinct ESF dataset within the ILR will no longer be required from 2009/10.
The ESF Short Record return will continue to exist in the future as will the ability to use POL for data input. This is to ensure that smaller providers are not discouraged from delivering ESF funded programmes by a requirement to produce a full ILR return.
