...

BTW, what would everybody be interested in implementing with regards a web-based DB? Are there any OSS projects out there for schools that meet their needs? If not why not? What about commercially available software? etc.

You should be aware that there is a subscription based group called HMC_ICT@yahoogroups.com where IT departments in private schools have discussed this very topic - the idea being to provide an open-source alternative to Sims/MENtor etc. Many boarding schools use such packages, and almost all of them dislike them :-) You should also know that Capita (who own sims/mentor) are producing a web interface to a new school database - it's being announced in November or December and will be available in the Summer. Allegedly. There was a flurry of activity on the topic but it has gone quiet. I think some people in the group may be working on it. Do you want me to prod? -- ******************************************************************************** All mail sent and received may be examined to prevent transmission of inappropriate attachments and certain obscenities. Wellington College does not accept responsibility for email contents. Problems to postmaster@wellington-college.berks.sch.uk. ********************************************************************************