Data protection & information law

Data protection and information law advice for academies and schools

Schools handle a significant amount of data about pupils, parents, staff and others. More people, including parents and staff, are becoming aware of the way in which data protection law, including the Data Protection Act and the UK GDPR, can be used, creating an additional administrative burden for schools. Much of this data is highly sensitive and can pose risks if it is not properly managed.

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Freedom of Information Requests

The Academies Act 2010 brought academies within the ambit of the Freedom of Information Act for the first time. This means that academies have specific duties which they must fulfil, including the necessity to have a Publication Scheme and to operate a procedure for responding to Freedom of Information Act requests which may be generated by anyone, including journalists and campaigners.

How can we help?

Our specialist team has considerable experience and expertise in advising schools and academies on data protection and freedom of information matters. We can advise you on a range of issues, including:

• Data protection eLearning - we provide data protection and information security training to enable you to demonstrate your staff have read key polices and understand their legal responsibilities. See the full range of VWV eLearning available to your staff.
• Dealing with requests for information under data protection and freedom of information law, relieving you of some of the stress and burden and minimising the risk of complaints to the Information Commissioner.
• Dealing with complaints to the Information Commissioner - The Information Commissioner has the power to fine academies up to £17.5 million for serious breaches of data protection law. Our proven track record has helped our clients avoid the more serious enforcement action (such as fines).
• Complying with data protection and information law when storing data on the 'cloud' or when sharing personal data with service providers.
• Common data protection issues such as information sharing, CCTV, marketing issues, overseas transfers, biometrics, data retention and data security.
• Providing practical and thought-provoking training courses, resulting in improved information handling and confidence in your systems.

For specialist legal advice on data protection and information law for academies, MATs and schools, please contact Yvonne Spencer on 0207 665 0870.