Speakers

Chris Burland is Head of Data and Systems for Beckfoot Trust, a 10 school multi academy trust based in Bradford. Chris works in the central team supporting schools and operational teams with data analysis and management of information systems. Chris has worked for Beckfoot Trust since 2006 in a variety of teaching and operational support roles giving him a breadth of experience and a real understanding of what it takes to make a difference to young people and support our mission of creating remarkable schools where no child is left behind.

Chris Goodall is Head of Digital Education at the Bourne Education Trust, leading AI transformation across 27 schools and over 14,000 pupils. An award-winning AI in education leader, he co-chairs the national AI in Education initiative representing 1,500+ schools and was recognised with the Edufuturists 2025 AI Pioneer Award and also featured in the Digital Leaders AI 100 UK Leaders list for his sector-shaping work. Chris has supported the development of a nationally adopted framework for AI implementation, advised on government policy, and built cross-sector partnerships with leading EdTech providers.

Chris is the Digital Strategy Lead for Ark and leads on the effective use of digital technology for teaching and learning with the schools in the Ark network. He has 20 years experience of working in education in a variety of roles including a senior leader, teacher, director of IT, strategy consultant and advisor. He is focused on enhancing education by using technology to support student outcomes.

Claire specialises in data protection, AI, information governance, and freedom of information for education clients at Browne Jacobson LLP. Her extensive experience leading a data protection officer service as well as experience working as a school business manager and as a local academy board governor equips her with a profound understanding of school challenges. Claire received the European Picasso 'Champion' Award for her ability to support and promote a positive information governance culture within schools, and the important work done by school staff to protect children's personal data. Claire is also a co-author of the IRMS Records Management Toolkit for Schools and Academies and is known for her effective public speaking and advocacy for data protection importance in education. Additionally, Claire's expertise extends to AI governance and edtech. This experience and knowledge makes her an invaluable resource for educational institutions.

As Head of Data at Co-op Academies Trust, Dewan leads the strategic evolution of data ecosystems across 38 academies. He bridges his frontline experience in school leadership with advanced data engineering on the Google Cloud Platform, leveraging BigQuery and Looker Studio to build sustainable organisational capacity. By transforming raw data into high-impact, actionable intelligence, he empowers leaders to make evidence-based decisions in an increasingly scrutinised environment.

A specialist in Digital Transformation, Dewan recently orchestrated the trust-wide implementation and change management of Arbor (MIS) and SAMpeople (HRIS). His approach prioritises building resilient digital foundations and operational consistency, ensuring that technical capability translates into tangible school improvement. Grounded in principles of data integrity and ethical governance, Dewan is committed to developing robust, scalable systems that support leaders at every level - from EYFS to post-16 and special education - in navigating the complexities of modern educational data.

An experienced multi academy trust executive, Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Data Protection Officer (DPO) who has successfully delivered a trust-wide digital transformation in a large, complex and rapidly growing trust.

Jonny has completed an Executive MBA programme achieving Chartered Manager status via the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). His innovative applied research project explored the potential for digital transformation through business model innovation within multi academy trusts.

As an active CIO Net member, Jonny networks with ambitious digital leaders and businesses from across the globe. A recognised thought leader on digital transformation, Jonny also speaks at conferences and shares insights via roundtables and panel discussions both within and beyond the education sector. As a former teacher and head of learning, Jonny has a passion for technology enhanced learning approaches. He has contributed to a range of further and higher education digital projects including an online massive online open course (MOOC), ‘Blended Learning Essentials’, in collaboration with UCL and the University of Leeds. Other projects included contributing to programmes such as the Technology Exemplar Network (BECTA), MoleNet (LSN), Regional Sustainability Event and Resource Utilisation Network (LSIS).

Laura has over 14 years’ experience in education, with the past eight years at the Advance Learning Partnership (ALP), initially as Head of Data before becoming Director of Operations in 2021. As Director of Operations, she plays a significant role in delivering the trust’s vision of enhancing both educational outcomes and organisational performance through the implementation of scalable systems and processes whilst empowering staff to use intelligence, drive improvements and deliver sustained impact. Her work in Operational Excellence has been recognised by the Institute of Business Leaders (ISBL) as an accredited OpEx Leader.

Lauren is the Chief Transformation Officer at United Learning, the largest trust in England. She leads the trust’s work on digital strategy, data and insights, curriculum and assessment, as well as the programme of transformation projects across the organisation. Prior to this, Lauren was the Director of Standards & Performance and Director of Strategy at Ark Schools. Earlier in her career Lauren led a secondary free school to its first good from Ofsted as principal, has taught computer science and IT in a range of schools, and was a research director for a thinktank in Westminster. Lauren holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Science, a master’s degree in ICT in Education, she has sat on the DfE Ed Tech Advisory Board and Workload Review Panel, and is a serving Ofsted inspector. During the academic year 2025-26, Lauren is Chair of the CST Data and insights professional community.

Michael Murray is Head of Regulatory Policy at the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), the United Kingdom’s data protection regulator. Michael leads on policy development related to children’s privacy. This includes work on codes of practice including the children’s code and the education data code. Michael’s team also supports children’s privacy engagement with online and digital services, other regulators and civil society organisations in the UK and internationally. His team leads on the development of age assurance policy at the ICO. Michael is a member of UNICEF's Expert Advisory Group on the Best Interest of the Child.

Michael has extensive experience in the non-profit and government sectors working in senior roles in the legal advice, charity and grants sectors prior to joining the ICO.

Sir Mark Grundy has been the CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust since 2007, after previously serving as the principal of Shireland Collegiate Academy, the trust’s founding school. He has also held the position of executive principal at both Shireland Collegiate Academy and George Salter Collegiate Academy. Sir Mark has had a distinguished career in education and has been recognised with several prestigious awards and achievements. His career has included serving as an advisor to the West Midlands Regional Schools Commissioner from 2012 to 2022, and being knighted in 2006 for his contributions to education and technology. He was also awarded an honorary Doctorate from Birmingham City University in 2022. Sir Mark gained his Masters qualification from Loughborough University.