UK schools are increasingly using social media to engage with communities, circulate information and celebrate staff and pupils’ achievements. However, it is far from clear that using images of children in this way is lawful under the UK GDPR, and there is currently no data protection guidance available from the ICO for schools on social media use.

The government has recently published an update regarding this issue, highlighting their planned Digital Information and Smart Data Bill. Changes to the bill are under consideration from the Department for Education (DfE).

The Bill aims to protect data and enable its safe and innovative use.

Actions
  • Obtain consent for use of personal data in schools and keep accurate records
  • Check with your DPO for updates on the latest GDPR guidance and changes in the law

Source Data protection in schools – Updates to the Digital Information and Smart Data Bill – Guidance – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

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