This article explains a very particular - and unique - type of import into Keypas, Expected Cohort Sizes. This is only of use during the summer term for primary assessments and enables checks within Nexus as to whether an import from a school is covering the expected number of pupils. This helps ensure that you have received all of the pupils that you're expecting.
Who this is for
Data teams importing EYFSP, Phonics and - potentially - KS2 Writing Teacher Assessment files from schools.
Before you start
- As with other imports, this requires permissions to import files into Keypas
- You will need to have gathered information - for each school in the LA that will contribute a file - what the expected cohort size for the year group(s) that are being submitted is.
Where to gather expected cohort sizes
- For EYFSP you will typically use the January census figures based on pupil eligibility (how long they have been in the school). This will be the Reception / Year R (0) cohort
- For Phonics, again you will use the January census figures
- Key Stage 2 - This is only useful for Local Authorities with an agreement to submit KS2 Writing TA on behalf of their schools. Once again, make use of the school census
You do not need to submit numbers for every year group if they will not be useful to your processes
Preparing the Expected Cohort Sizes template
Select Import New File and then Expected Cohort Sizes to begin this process.
You will see an example file on the page, this is the template required for this particular import, click the Example Expected Cohort CSV file link to download the template.
The data shown in the sample file should be deleted and you can enter details of the expected cohort sizes for your schools.
- Year – Enter the academic year to which the expected cohort sizes apply
- Keystage – Enter the assessment stage the cohort sizes apply to (0=EYFS, P=Phonics, 2=KS2)
- Estab – Enter the DfE ID Number the expected cohort sizes apply to
- Expected Cohort Size - Enter the expected cohort size as a whole number
Save the .csv file to a convenient location ready for uploading.
Uploading and Importing
Use the same process as described in Keypas - Import Queue
Making use of the Expected Cohort Sizes
Expected cohort sizes are just that, expected. Schools can and will have more or less pupils than expected as pupils may have joined or left since January census. You should use the numbers prepared as a guide simply to prompt schools in the event of larger discrepancies.
Reports making use of the Expected Cohort Sizes are located in Keypas under the Reports sub categories with a name similar to 'Cohort Differences'.
Last reviewed / owner
Last reviewed: August 2026 / Owner: Technical Support Director