MAT Insights: Compliance Watch - Can Your Trust See Where Data Protection Risks Are Growing?

As your trust grows, consistency becomes harder to maintain.

The question is: can you see where your data protection risks are building before they become trust-wide problems?

As multi-academy trusts expand, ensuring every school follows consistent, effective data protection practices becomes increasingly complex. Different processes, varying levels of confidence and inconsistent reporting can make it challenging for MAT leaders to gain the visibility and assurance needed to identify emerging risks early.

Join our latest MAT Insights session to explore how trust leaders can strengthen oversight, improve consistency and build a more proactive approach to data protection governance across their organisation.

Drawing on real-life MAT experiences and challenges identified across the sector, we’ll share practical insights into how MATs can use reporting, central oversight and data-led decision-making to better understand their risk landscape and strengthen accountability across every school,

During this session, you'll learn how to:

• Gain greater visibility of Trust-wide data protection risks, helping you identify recurring themes, systemic weaknesses and areas where targeted support may be needed.
• Strengthen reporting and assurance frameworks, enabling leaders to spot trends, challenge inconsistencies and make informed decisions about risk.
• Develop a consistent approach across every school, simplifying processes, supporting Trust growth and reducing reliance on individual academy practices.
• Use meaningful data and insight to drive strategic action, improving accountability and giving leaders greater confidence in their Trust’s compliance position

Craig Stilwell

Craig is a qualified solicitor and experienced data protection practitioner who has been with Judicium since 2012. As Head of Data Services, he leads the UK’s largest education-focused data protection team, setting high standards for compliance across schools and Trusts.

Known for his attention to detail and regulatory expertise, Craig ensures practical, accurate advice tailored to the education sector. He has led the development of innovative compliance tools, including an in-house dashboard and AI and redaction services, and is a sought-after speaker and regular contributor to education data protection publications.

Outside of work, Craig enjoys live music, running and supporting Swansea City.