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Report reveals the current state of online safety in schools across England

Source: UK Safer Internet Centre published on this website Monday 23 September 2024 by Jill Powell

The 2024 analysis of the 360 Degree Safe database demonstrates approach to online safety policy and practice across schools and colleges in England.

The latest report highlights strengths in policy and technical measures; showcasing particular strengths within areas such as Filtering, Online Safety Policy, Monitoring, and Professional Standards (amongst others). 

The report also demonstrates causes for concern, highlighting that areas requiring long-term investment, training, and community engagement are weaker. Schools are seen to have made minimal progress in essential areas, such as data security, staff training, and stakeholder engagement.

The analysis explores the data collected from over 17,000 schools across England who make use of the 360 Degree Safe tool. To learn more about this data, observations, strengths, and areas in need of improvement, please download the latest report. 

Together with the newly established standards from the Department for Education (DfE), the latest 360 Degree Safe report on online safety in English schools from the UK Safer Internet Centre reveals a surprising and concerning slowdown in progress. While schools have swiftly adopted tools like AI and other digital resources, they are struggling to keep up with the rapidly evolving demands of online safety, underscoring the need for renewed focus and investment in this critical area.

Key Findings:

  • Stagnation in Critical Areas

Despite maintaining strong filtering and monitoring systems, schools have made minimal progress in other essential areas, such as data security, staff training, and stakeholder engagement. Data security, in particular, has shown little improvement over the past few years, exposing a widespread lack of advancement in safeguarding personal information and complying with relevant legislation.

  • Slow Alignment with New Standards

Although the DfE introduced new standards for filtering and monitoring, many schools have been slow to fully align with these guidelines. This delay leaves students vulnerable in an increasingly complex digital environment, where risks are constantly evolving.

  • Over-Reliance on Technical Measures

The report highlights a troubling trend in the over-reliance on technical safeguards like filtering and monitoring, while neglecting broader educational strategies. While these tools are vital, a comprehensive approach to online safety must include not only technology but also robust education, training, and active engagement with staff, students, and other stakeholders.

Call to Actions:

To bridge these gaps, schools must prioritise the areas where progress has stalled. Key areas needing immediate attention include:

  • Data Security: Strengthening measures to protect personal data and comply with regulations.
  • Staff and Governor Training: Ensuring all staff and governors receive thorough training to navigate the complex online safety landscape.
  • Youth Involvement: Actively involving young people in shaping online safety policies to ensure that they are relevant and effective.

David Wright CBE Director of UK Safer Internet Centre said: ‘‘The new government now has an opportunity to drive meaningful change by updating policies and providing the necessary resources for schools to improve in these areas. By focusing on data protection, staff training, and the inclusion of students in safety initiatives, schools can create a safer, more resilient online environment that keeps pace with rapid technological advancements. Ultimately, these efforts will enable schools to meet the new DfE standards and protect students from the ever-growing risks in the digital world.’’

To explore latest findings please download the 360 Degree Safe report