Business Systems and Data Management Officer
London Borough of Croydon
Salary range: Grade 10 (£45,123 - £47,262 p.a.)
Contract: Fixed Term - 12 months
Hours of work: Part-time - 21 hours/3 days a week
Location: Croydon
About Croydon Council
Croydon is a diverse and vibrant borough, home to a growing population of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Croydon Council is committed to delivering high-quality services that support children, young people, and families. The SEND team plays a vital role in coordinating Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), ensuring appropriate provision is in place, and working closely with families, schools, and partners. Accurate and reliable data underpins all our statutory and operational work.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Data Management Officer to support a major data quality improvement programme within the Synergy SEND module. This role will focus on cleansing and validating SEND data to ensure accurate tracking of EHCPs, placements, reviews, and statutory timescales. Your work will directly support children and families across Croydon by improving the quality and accessibility of SEND information used for decision-making and statutory reporting.
Key Responsibilities
- Cleanse and validate SEND records within the Synergy database, including EHCP status, provision, key dates, and case management information
- Identify and resolve inconsistencies, duplicate records, missing data, and incorrect formatting in line with SEND workflows
- Ensure accurate tracking of statutory deadlines for EHCP assessments, reviews, and transfers
- Collaborate with the SEND Casework, Planning, and Tribunal teams to verify and update data
- Support the preparation of statutory returns such as SEN2 and Local Area SEND Inspections
- Maintain detailed records of cleansing activities and contribute to improved data management practices
- Ensure compliance with GDPR, safeguarding, and information governance requirements
- Use tools such as Excel, Synergy reports, and Power BI to support data monitoring and reporting
Person Specification
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience working with data in education Synergy module, SEND, or local government settings
- Strong Excel skills, including formulas, data validation, and data cleaning functions
- Familiarity with the Synergy system, particularly the SEND or EHCP modules
- High level of attention to detail, accuracy, and organisation
- Good understanding of SEND processes, EHCP workflows, and statutory responsibilities
- Ability to manage sensitive information confidentially and in line with data protection regulations
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work with operational and technical colleagues
Desirable
- Experience supporting SEND statutory returns (e.g. SEN2, Children in Need)
- Knowledge of Power BI, SQL, or other data tools used for tracking and reporting
- Experience in data preparation for Ofsted or SEND Area Inspections
- Understanding of the wider SEND system including schools, health, and social care interfaces
What We Offer
- A role that contributes directly to improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND
- Supportive team culture and opportunities for professional development
- Flexible and hybrid working options
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Comprehensive employee benefits and wellbeing support
A chance to make a meaningful impact within a service committed to improvement and inclusion