Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if she will publish impact and risk assessments undertaken on schools for the Data Exchange project.

The Data Exchange Project began with a small team in 2013 exploring options to modernise the flow of data across the sector in response to an Independent Analytical Review. A project, focusing on how best to deliver the current intended scope and benefits, began in January 2016. Consultation since then has included regular testing and research with schools, proportionate to the stage of the project.

The project has undertaken an initial privacy impact screening assessment. This is reviewed as work progresses to ensure all privacy risks are regularly assessed. Data Exchange has recently passed its end Alpha phase Government Digital Service (GDS) assessment, demonstrating the approach taken so far has clearly understood the risks and benefits associated with change. Passing that GDS assessment requires demonstration of regular work alongside users in schools (and elsewhere), to design an approach that will benefit schools and others without adding unnecessary complexity, risk or burden.

A copy of the latest initial impact screening assessment has been placed in the House library.