What are the advantages of Facility?
Having data all in one place means that schools have good control over the information they hold. A single entry, multiple use system means that information is more accurate and immediate than when multiple copies are used. That gives senior staff the power of data-driven decision making. Read more about Facility
What are Serco’s credentials?
Serco is one of the few companies in the UK to hold three places on supplier frameworks from the British Educational Communications and Technology Agency (Becta) for its consultancy services, infrastructure services and learning platform. Serco is also a partner of Edustructures, the recognised leader in schools interoperability framework (SIF) solutions for the US education market, and is a certified provider of Edustructures SIF-based solutions, acting as a sales and support channel in the UK.
I already use an MIS – why change to Facility?
Hundreds of schools switch to Facility every year because they have found that its truly integrated nature gives them the power to implement effective change and drive whole school improvement.
Read more about Facility.
What will Facility cost me?
A much better question would be to ask what Facility can save you.
A key benefit of using Facility is that paperwork is restricted to a minimum. Parents can access newsletters, progress reports, exam results and a host of other information securely so fewer letters to home are generated by each school. Records are available on-screen from any web connected computer, so fewer paper files are generated, reducing consumption of paper, power, toner and ink and drastically cutting costs.
What form of database does Facility use?
Facility can run on any form of database. Most schools use an SQL database for their live data, but the data can be transferred to an Access database for use as a text system. Find out more on technical specifications
Can I use Facility to implement a paperless report system?
Yes. Using document storage an electronic copy of the school report is automatically attached to the student record which can then be viewed by parents and the student using the parent and student views of Facility ePortal. Read more about Facility
Does Facility require a hardwired network?
No. Facility Administration and Facility ePortal will both work on any form of network, including wireless. Facility ePortal can also be accessed using a PDA over a wireless network to allow registers to be taken during outdoor lessons. Find out more on technical specifications
What does implementation include?
We take the responsibility of implementation as a project that will give you the extra help you need in order to get your new software solution up and running.
Included in the implementation are an on-site preparation meeting, on-site installation, data transfer, system set up and an on-site review day. Read more about implementation.
What will Serco do for the school during implementation?
We will negotiate and work with the school to ensure that there is a correct current academic timetable in the system; that roll call attendance is operating correctly; to deliver assessment entry screens and a set of assessment reports based on our best practice samples but tailored to the school’s requirements; to deliver a behaviour tracking system and reports; and to ensure that the examinations area is ready to make candidate entries. Read more about implementation
What will Serco do for the school after implementation?
Facility users have access to all the support and training they need to ensure maximum and optimum use of the system.
Any technical questions can be answered quickly and easily by phone or email and schools can attend a host of specialised one and two-day courses for advanced training. In addition our team of expert consultants can visit a Facility school to advise on the best way to use the system for whole school improvement. Read more about implementation
Can parents have live access to their student's record?
Yes, if you permit them. By logging on to Facility ePortal parents, or contacts with parental responsibility, are able to see live information about their child's attendance, behaviour and assessment results.
How long will installation take?
Change can be a challenge, but we hope to be able to make your transition as smooth as possible and for you to be able to gain the benefits of choosing our solution in the shortest possible time.
Can a cover teacher see student photos in ePortal?
Student photos can be seen (or hidden) in ePortal in any of the following 4 areas: attendance entry screens, assessment entry screens, student records and teaching/tutor group lists.
Will Facility integrate with my local authority’s systems?
Yes. We will consult with your local authority to ensure that your system can exchange data and that your statutory returns can be completed smoothly.
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