The Enquiries (ENQ) module is built around managing student enquiries, so by default every new enquiry creates a Student record. Occasionally, you’ll receive enquiries from people who are not students (for example, agents, partners, parents, or suppliers).
This article outlines two recommended ways to handle non-student enquiries, depending on how you want them managed long term.
Why non-student enquiries create Student records
When an enquiry is submitted, the Platform always creates a Student record first. This is because the Enquiries module requires a core set of contact details, and those records are stored under the Student structure by design.
This behaviour applies to all enquiries, regardless of whether the person is actually a prospective student.
How to manage non-student enquiries
There are two supported methods; which one you use will depend on where you ultimately want the record to live.
Option 1: Use the Enquiries module, then move the record
Use this option if the enquiry initially comes in through a standard student-facing form.
Create the enquiry as normal in the Enquiries module.
Once the record exists, use Copy student to Contact Manager.
Manage the contact going forward in Contact Manager as a lead or opportunity.
This keeps the original enquiry intact while allowing you to work with the contact outside the Student Database.
Option 2: Send enquiries straight to Contact Manager
Use this option when the contact is clearly not a student from the outset.
Create and use a Contact Manager form instead of a student enquiry form.
Manage the record as a lead or opportunity, without creating a Student record at all.
This approach avoids unnecessary Student records and is usually the cleanest option for non-student audiences.
Best practice
Decide early what the enquiry is about
If the person is not a prospective student, route them to Contact Manager from the start.Keep records tidy
Periodically review Contact Manager to ensure non-student contacts are correctly categorised and not sitting in the Student Database unnecessarily.
FAQs
Q. Can I rename “Student” for non-student enquiries?
A. No. The Student label is part of the Platform’s underlying structure and applies to all enquiries created via the Enquiries module.
Q. Will copying a student to Contact Manager delete the Student record?
A. No. Copying creates a separate Contact record. The original Student record will still exist unless you manually remove it.
Q. Which option should I use most of the time?
A. If you regularly receive non-student enquiries, using a Contact Manager form is usually the better long-term approach. The Enquiries module is best reserved for genuine student enquiries.