DfE Data plays a key part within a modern education system. It provides the opportunity to effectively monitor the progress of learners, it allows evaluation within evidence-based practice, and it provides the opportunities for huge efficiencies in how school life operates. The use of data across our sector and beyond has developed significantly in recent years. And so it is right that the law, processes and skillsets associated with being effective guardians of children’s data are brought up to date and fit for the modern era. As the new data protection legislation comes into effect in May, it provides a challenge and an opportunity. Understanding and aligning to the changes is a challenge for all organisations, big or small. It does though provide a thorough opportunity to refresh policies and procedures relating to the safe stewardship of data.
By Neil McIvor
Chief Data Officer
Department for Education