Documentation Requirements For Schools

[cheekycharly]

Hi guys, as I am fairly new to the Education sector I am wondering if any of you know exactly what documentation I want to ensure we have in place for Example a Cyber Response Plan and E-Safety Policy.

 

Really appreciate any answers as it will help me identify any gaps that need filling.

 

Thanks in advance all!

 

CC

[StevieM]

As far as Documentation Requirements go - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/statutory-policies-for-schools-and-academy-trusts/statutory-policies-for-schools-and-academy-trusts

[localzuk]

For Cyber Response Plan - if you're an academy, and therefore part of the RPA insurance policy, they have a template for it as it is a requirement of the insurance. Edited July 12, 2023 by localzuk

[cheekycharly]

Couldn't see anything on that long list regarding Cyber or E Safety?

[cheekycharly]

I have made a Cyber Response plan back when I joined the team here around December and recently created a Cyber Security Resilience Strategy which talks more about the preventative measures.

[localzuk]

E-Safety is "Online Safety" these days, and is covered in KCSIE - section 138 of the document for this year.

 

"138. Online safety and the school or college’s approach to it should be reflected in the child protection policy which, amongst other things, should include appropriate filtering and monitoring on school devices and school networks. Considering the 4Cs (above) will provide the basis of an effective online policy. The school or college should have a clear policy on the use of mobile and smart technology, which will also reflect the fact many children have unlimited and unrestricted access to the internet via mobile phone networks (i.e. 3G, 4G and 5G). This access means some children, whilst at school or college, sexually harass, bully, and control others via their mobile and smart technology, share indecent images consensually and non-consensually (often via large chat groups) and view and share pornography and other harmful content. Schools and colleges should carefully consider how this is managed on their premises and reflect this in their mobile and smart technology policy and their child protection policy."

 

As online safety is itself such a large area, I think most schools mention it in their Child Protection Policy, and then have a fully fleshed out Online Safety Policy as well.

 

The DfE list is not definitive regarding policies and the like, as there are other aspects of academies that the DfE aren't directly responsible for - eg the RPA insurance requirements, KCSIE/Safer Internet guidelines, accounting requirements (eg. having a risk register).

Edited July 12, 2023 by localzuk