On Friday 21 November, we gathered at the Midlands Arts Centre for our third Data in Schools Conference of the year. DISCO Birmingham brought together 120 colleagues for a day of lively discussion, challenging ideas, and a long of insight into how we use data in schools.
Matt Foster kicked things off with a thoughtful look at how data can genuinely support students with SEND—rather than simply generate paperwork. Steve Wren took a deep dive into Similar Schools databases, asking how schools might be able to compare themselves to other schools, and how might they be able to collaborate with others.
Our Making Data Meaningful panel didn’t disappoint. Emily Hobson, Aimee Tinkler, and Kerry Cooney shared what happens when strategy meets reality in classrooms.
Joshua Perry (SmartGrade and Carousel) explored how AI can support school data processes. Finally, James Pembroke and Richard Selfridge reflected on a decade of working with school data. The verdict? We’ve learned a lot—but we’re still wrestling with the same fundamental challenge: how to turn numbers into knowledge without losing sight of the child behind the data.
We’re already planning next year’s events. If you’d like a DISCO near you, or have burning topics you want us to tackle, get in touch. And to everyone who joined us in Birmingham: thank you for making the day such a success.
