For both pupils and schools, roll books constitute a historically important record of pupils' names, dates of birth, dates of enrolment, addresses, attendances and absences. In addition to its historical importance, the information recorded in school roll books is crucial to the administration not only of each individual school but also of the educational system as a whole.
In accordance with the Rules for National Schools, the principal teacher is charged with the keeping and care of the school records. Such records may not be removed from the school except by the inspector, or with the express sanction of the inspector. When a roll book is finished, it should be stored carefully by the school.
At second level, school authorities are instructed that such records must be kept on the school premises and be available for inspection by the Department's officers.