I have been at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for four years now, working in the Methodology and Quality Directorate (MQD). My early years at ONS were primarily spent conducting qualitative research. So, when I moved to the Methodological Research Hub in MQD and got the opportunity to work on quantitative projects that used […]
Learn more on Coding Chronicles: My experience learning how to codeWhat is aftables? aftables is an R package for creating accessible spreadsheets. aftables implements the Analysis Function guidance for releasing statistics in spreadsheets. What does aftables do? aftables automates text formatting and layout of spreadsheets to meet accessibility requirements. Aftables currently generates Excel workbooks using openxlsx. How do I use aftables? aftables is available to […]
Learn more on Best practice for automated spreadsheets in R: Creating Accessible Spreadsheets with aftablesSince 2024, I have enjoyed being the sponsor for a Government Statistical Service (GSS) Fast Stream cohort. It’s been great to hear about the new skills they’ve gained and the experiences they are embracing to set them up for their future careers. In talking to them it’s clear they are ambitious, and rightly so! However, […]
Learn more on Navigating a career in statistics: reflections from senior leadersI joined the Home Office as a Data Analyst Apprentice in March 2023 and completed my apprenticeship in August 2024. Although I already had a BA in International Affairs, over time, I realised that data science was the career path I wanted to follow. My interest in maths and data led me to complete several […]
Learn more on My apprenticeship journey at the Home OfficeThe first time I encountered the power of data, I was mesmerized. It was not just numbers or statistics; it was a gateway to understanding the world in ways I never thought possible. My journey into artificial intelligence (AI) and data science has been an adventure—one filled with discovery, challenges, and innovation. Today, I have […]
Learn more on From Curiosity to Cutting-Edge AI: My Journey in Data ScienceSimon Baugh, Chief Executive of the Government Communication Service (GCS), and Ed Humpherson, Director General for Regulation for the Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR), recently presented together at the GSS Conference in Edinburgh. This blog highlights some of the key themes of the conference. Ed and Simon discussed with the audience how analysts and communications […]
Learn more on Growing public trust in statistics through collaborative communication and intelligent transparencyEarlier this year, I stepped into the big and busy BBC newsroom, moving on secondment from the Home Office. Over the next few months, I worked as BBC Verify’s consultant statistician, fact-checking claims in heated election debates, ‘filing copy’ on interesting stories, and advising journalists about statistical best practice and presentation. Part of my role […]
Learn more on From Lunar House to Broadcasting House: My secondment to the BBCWhat is afcharts? afcharts is an R package for creating accessible charts. afcharts implements the Analysis Function data visualisation guidance. What does afcharts do? afcharts automates setting accessible colours, fonts and text sizing, axes labelling, and much more. Currently, functions are available for styling ggplot2 plots. afcharts takes your charts from the ggplot2 defaults to […]
Learn more on Automated data visualisation best practice in R: afcharts releaseIn my time at ONS, I’ve led some ambitious changes which have highlighted the fact that whilst crucial, change can sometimes be challenging. There are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way which I hope will help colleagues through managing change. Put people at the heart of change and put yourself in their shoes […]
Learn more on Lessons I’ve learned from managing changeAnalysts across the civil service face significant pressures to deliver demanding analysis at pace, which can get in the way of trying new things and making improvements to the way we work. In support of this year’s One Big Thing, Adrian Richards (HM Revenue & Customs) and Matt Gurden (Deputy Government Actuary) were joined by […]
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