Data Manager - Immediate Requirement in Kempston, Bedford

We are looking for a highly analytical and technically proficient Data Manager to join a well-regarded secondary school in Kempston, just on the outskirts of Bedford. This role is essential for ensuring that the school's leadership team has the accurate, real-time data needed to drive student attainment and school-wide growth., As the Data Manager, you will be the school's lead expert on all things related to information management. You will bridge the gap between technical data entry and strategic decision-making. Your core responsibilities will include:

• Performance Tracking: Creating and maintaining complex tracking systems to monitor student progress against national benchmarks.
• Strategic Reporting: Visualizing data for the Senior Leadership Team and Governors to identify trends in attendance, behavior, and academic attainment.
• Statutory Returns: Managing the timely and accurate submission of the School Census and other Department for Education (DfE) requirements.
• System Integrity: Ensuring the school's MIS is clean, secure, and fully GDPR compliant.

• Technical Mastery: Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are a must (macros, complex formulas, and data visualization).
• Sector Experience: Prior experience in an educational data role is preferred, specifically with school-based MIS platforms.
• Analytical Mindset: The ability to look beyond the numbers to provide narrative and context to the Senior Leadership Team.
• Independence: A self-starter who can manage high-pressure deadlines, particularly during the census and exam results seasons.
• Compliance: A thorough understanding of Data Protection and GDPR within a school setting.