Systems Developer

Priestley College; Warrington, Coalville; On-site; GBP 11,000 - 15,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Sick pay scheme

TCAT+ rewards platform

Job summary

Priestley College is seeking a dedicated Systems Developer to own the back-end MIS work and translate data needs into reliable reports and processes. You will maintain the Civica REMS database, write SQL, and produce SSRS/Power BI reports while supporting MIS, Exams and Admissions during peak cycles.

The role suits an experienced SQL/BI developer who values autonomy, practical problem solving and direct impact on college operations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a UK education setting (school or college).
• Relational databases and intermediate-to-advanced SQL experience.
• Experience deploying operational reports with SSRS/Power BI/Report Builder or Visual Studio.
• Ability to work independently as the sole technical developer.
• Strong attention to data accuracy, performance and reporting precision.
• Understanding of GDPR and safeguarding data.
• Flexibility to support peak periods including evenings.

Responsibilities

• Maintain Civica REMS back-end: tuning, troubleshooting and scripts.
• Write/optimize SQL queries, views and stored procedures.
• Design/develop reports and dashboards using SSRS, Power BI and Report Builder.
• Configure mass-communication back-end processes and data streams.
• Support timetabling, student records and exams administration during peaks.
• Prepare backend actions for system updates and cloud transition planning.
• Produce clear technical documentation for non-technical staff.

Skills

SQL

SSRS

Power BI

Report Builder

Visual Studio

Civica REMS

Data security

Education

Level 4/5 IT

Tools

Civica REMS

SQL Server

SSRS

Power BI

Visual Studio

Office 365

Google Workspace

Job description

Contract Type: Part time (up to 15 hours/week). Term time (39 weeks) plus 4 weeks holiday working (43 weeks total). Fixed term to 31 August 2027.

Salary: Point 12 to Point 20 on the SFCA Support Staff Scale (£29,544 to £37,734 FTE, £11,409 to £14,572 actual salary based on 15 hours pw / 43 weeks pa) starting point to be determined by relevant experience.

Closing Date: Midday, Monday 24th August 2026.

This is a role for someone able to own the College's back-end MIS work and translate technical data needs into reliable reports and processes. As the sole Systems Developer you will maintain and develop the Civica REMS database and related systems, write and run SQL queries, produce SSRS/Power BI reports, and provide technical support to MIS, Exams and Admissions during peak cycles. The post suits an experienced SQL/BI developer who prefers autonomy, practical problem-solving, and a direct impact on college operations.

What you'll be doing

• Maintain and administer the Civica REMS back-end: database tuning, troubleshooting, preserving bespoke scripts and custom code.
• Write, test and optimise SQL (queries, views, stored procedures) to support operational needs and ad-hoc requests.
• Design, develop and maintain reports and dashboards using SSRS, Power BI, Report Builder and Visual Studio; schedule and deliver outputs to curriculum, pastoral teams, students and parents/carers.
• Configure and run mass-communication back-end processes (mail-merge/data streams, surveys, digital communications).
• Support key operational cycles (timetabling, student records, enrolment periods, exams administration), including hands-on support at peak times which may include occasional evening work.
• Prepare and test back-end actions required for system updates and assist with the planned transition to a cloud-based REMS when available.
• Produce clear technical documentation, specifications and guidance so non-technical staff can use reports and systems reliably.
• Ensure all work complies with data protection (GDPR/Data Protection Act) and the College's information security expectations.

What we're looking for

Essential

• Practical experience in a UK education setting (school or college).
• Proven experience with relational databases and intermediate-to-advanced SQL (queries, views, stored procedures).
• Experience designing and deploying operational reports using SSRS, Power BI, Report Builder or Microsoft Visual Studio.
• Ability to work independently as the sole technical developer, prioritise tasks and resolve back-end issues.
• Strong attention to data accuracy, system performance and reporting precision.
• Understanding of data security, GDPR and safeguarding of student/staff data.
• Flexibility to support operational peaks, including occasional evening work.

Desirable

• Level 4/5 qualification in Computer Science/IT (Degree, HND) or equivalent experience.
• Formal training or certification in Microsoft SQL Server, T-SQL, SSRS or Power BI.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as Office 365 or Google Workspace.

About the team

You will report to the Central Services Manager (MIS Lead) and be the technical lead for the College's MIS work. The role works closely with the MIS, Exams and Admissions teams and with curriculum and pastoral staff who rely on timely, accurate reports. As the sole developer, you will be expected to document solutions and keep colleagues informed of system changes.

What we offer

• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• An Occupational Sick Pay Scheme (entitlements based on service).
• Access to TCAT+ our Reward & Wellbeing platform, including retailer discounts, a car lease scheme, discounted healthcare cash plan, cycle to work scheme and online resources to support physical, emotional, professional, financial and social wellbeing.
• Access to a comprehensive CPD framework through ‘Education Connect’ and online resources from the National College.