Smartcards take up in Schools

We have undertaken some supplier research and discovered that use of cards and cashless catering in schools has grown dramatically from around 10% of schools 5 years ago to over 60% of secondary schools in 2009. Figures are difficult confirm as no one agency covers all service providers or institutions. Take up varies by area (eg most of Surrey schools, but far fewer in many London boroughs). What is take up in your area?

Given the levels of investment, range of applications and number of pupils and staff involved, further research may be warranted.

For more information about School and Youth applications, you can now find all the presentations and a summary in the members area.

Kevin Farquharson
Co-Chair SCNF
www.scnf.org.uk

SCNF Schools & Youth Event Success

The Schools and Youth event was very well received by attendees on Thursday and we are very grateful to Thomas Deacon Academy for hosting the event. An event report, presentations, pictures and possibly some video will be posted in the members area.

In addition to finding out how cashless catering, access control and e-registration are becoming core systems in our secondary schools, attendees heard the latest feedback from youth card projects in Sunderland, Bolton, Scotland and London. Of particular note was the uptake in incentive schemes for target groups, use of pre-paid purses on cards and schools transport tracking system.

In the resume of year, we asked for thoughts on future events and activities. The response was:

• Transport and transition from Mifare card types
  
• Payment applications (good - next meeting)
  
• Workshop sessions on application areas
  
• Event hosted at LA with operational scheme
  
• Business Case
  
• Data integration approach in multi-app scheme
  
• Influencing decision makers
  

If you ideas or input for future events, take a look at the website, comment on the blog and let us have your feedback.

Kevin Farquharson

Co-Chair SCNF & Event Chair

http://www.scnf.org.uk/

SCNF Schools & Youth Event 23rd April

Our next SCNF event is only a week away and we wanted to give you an insight into the key messages we are expecting to come out from the day in Peterborough.

"For the first time, the SCNF is bringing together at a single event, the definitive initiatives and case studies for combined youth and school cards. School and public sector representatives will learn about schemes which provide incentives for young people, access to services and more efficient school administration. Our Local Authority speakers will cover case studies from London, Bolton, Sunderland and Scotland.

The event will explore how school students can use ONE card at school for a range of applications and access to transport and other services beyond the school gate."

If you are already registered to attend, you should have received confirmation details. We have space for a few more Public Sector delegates, so sign up and let us know you wish to come.

We look forward to meeting you on the 23rd.

Regards

Kevin Farquharson
Join Chair SCNF
For SCNF Core Group