The Department for Education (DfE) has published Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2026, which comes into force on 1 September 2026. While the overall safeguarding framework remains largely unchanged, the guidance contains several important updates that schools, colleges and trusts should be preparing for now.

Executive Summary

Stronger focus on child-on-child abuse and sexual harassment
KCSIE 2026 strengthens expectations around preventing, identifying and responding to child-on-child abuse, including sexual harassment, sexual violence and harmful online behaviour. Schools are expected to maintain a zero-tolerance culture and ensure reporting and support mechanisms are effective.

Enhanced online safety and AI guidance
The guidance reflects emerging risks associated with generative AI, including deepfakes and AI-generated sexual imagery. Schools should review online safety arrangements, filtering and monitoring controls, and staff awareness of evolving digital risks.

Improved information sharing and multi-agency working
KCSIE places further emphasis on timely information sharing and collaborative safeguarding arrangements, including statutory developments linked to Operation Encompass. Schools should ensure safeguarding teams understand local processes and responsibilities.

Updates to safer recruitment requirements
Changes have been made to regulated activity, DBS checking arrangements and safeguarding checks for staff and volunteers. Schools should review recruitment processes and ensure compliance with the revised requirements.

Greater emphasis on safeguarding leadership
The role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) has been strengthened, with increased expectations around capacity, training and organisational oversight. Governing bodies and trust boards should ensure safeguarding continues to receive appropriate scrutiny and challenge.

TIAA’s Point of View

For governing bodies, trust boards and audit committees, KCSIE 2026 provides an opportunity to seek assurance that senior leaders have assessed the impact of the new guidance and taken any necessary action.

Audit Committees should seek evidence that:

  • KCSIE 2026 has been reviewed by senior leadership.
  • Safeguarding policies and procedures have been updated where required.
  • Staff and governor training reflects the revised guidance.
  • Online safety, AI and filtering/monitoring arrangements have been considered.
  • Recruitment and vetting processes remain compliant.

With safeguarding remaining a key focus for regulators and inspectors, boards should satisfy themselves that any required changes are being implemented ahead of the guidance taking effect on 1 September 2026.