Data and Information Governance Officer Review

My role covers data protection and freedom of information compliance. I am responsible for ensuring compliance with the provisions of the UK GDPR and DPA, developing policies and procedures, providing advice and assistance on data processing, and handling Subject Access and Freedom of Information requests.
Day to day involves dealing with data breaches, assessing FOI and SAR responses for exemptions and sending responses, maintaining central records such as the Records of Processing activities, and advising on data sharing and processing activities.

The programme is very well structured, building the foundational basis and then developing the areas that are needed to be an effective data protection and information governance officer.

My employer has been very supportive throughout. The council values apprenticeships and supports officers who want to progress down these paths. Managers provide one to one support when needed and the HR team runs an apprenticeship workshop which is a great opportunity to network with other apprentices and discuss what further support could be provided. The HR team also organise further sessions to help apprentices, such as academic writing sessions which are invaluable to apprentices who do not come from an academic background.

The training provider supports me well. I have 6 weekly meetings with my coach along with sessions at the end of each module which cover the content. They are also available via email when needed.

The qualification has helped me become a better data and information governance officer and has supported me in improving my performance across multiple areas. The qualification acts as a good introduction to many areas, however more depth in certain areas would be useful.

Yes

SKDC is very supportive of further education and provides a great platform to learn on the job and progress your career.