ARThe 360 Degree Safe Tool and Online Safety Mark Assessment (OSM) have played a central part in helping schools improve their online safety policies and practices. As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen our approaches to improve the tool we have asked schools to share their experiences with 360.
In this article we take a look at the feedback from schools that participated in the assessment process in 2024, shedding light on the tool’s effectiveness, usability, and the overall assessment experience. As part of our ongoing efforts
Key Insights from Schools
- Effectiveness: The tool enables schools to audit their current provisions, identify gaps, and implement improvements. Many users highlighted its role in addressing overlooked areas and ensuring high safety standards within online safety practice.
- Clarity and Comprehension: 79% of respondents praised the quality of information provided on the 360 website, emphasising its clarity and comprehensive resources.
- Assessment Guidance: A striking 83% rated the pre-assessment guidance as “very good,” with many highlighting its thoroughness and clarity. However, a few suggested additional preparatory resources, such as additional checklists.
The Assessment Experience
- Communication with assessors received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 92% rating it as “very good.” The visit schedule templates were deemed clear and adaptable, aiding efficient planning in busy school environments.
- Staff and Pupils: Assessors’ ability to connect with staff and students was highly commended, with 96% rating it “very good.” Assessors’ professionalism, compassion, and ability to put participants at ease stood out.
- Knowledge and Feedback: Assessors demonstrated in-depth understanding of the tool and provided actionable feedback. Participants valued the balance of constructive criticism and celebration of achievements.
Celebrating Success and Setting Next Steps
- Recognition: Assessors ensured schools felt celebrated for their efforts, with 87% rating this aspect “very good.” Many schools shared their achievements via social media and internal communications.
- Next Steps: Suggestions for improvement were detailed and relevant, helping schools refine their online safety practices. These recommendations often informed action plans for the following academic year.
Suggestions for Improvement
Despite the positive feedback, some areas for enhancement with the tool were noted:
- Navigation: Simplifying the tool’s structure to make specific sections easier to locate.
- Pre-assessment Preparation: Offering workshops or webinars to familiarise new users with the tool.
- Time Management: Streamlining the process to reduce the burden on already stretched teaching staff.
- Additional Resources: Providing checklists or evidence templates to further support preparation.
As part of our efforts to strengthen the tool, we will look at this feedback and see where we can implement new additions to support some of the areas for improvement. Although as highlighted that time management is a concern, we must stress the importance of vigilance and collaboration with the 360 tool to help improve understanding and to support with a proactive approach towards online safety. The 360 process requires ongoing engagement from the school community for it to be an effective exercise and we will continue to encourage schools to invest their time in improving their online safety standards.
The Overall Impact
It was fantastic to see that the Online Safety Mark assessment process received recognition, with 92% rating it as “very good.” Schools described the process as reflective, supportive, and rewarding with many highlighting that the tool promotes compliance with statutory requirements but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement in online safety.
The 360 Degree Safe Tool and Online Safety Mark assessment have shown that they are invaluable resources for schools striving to enhance online safety. While some refinements are highlighted for areas for improvement, the positive feedback underscores the effectiveness in driving meaningful change. Schools are still encouraged to embrace this free process as a step towards creating safer online environments for students and staff alike.
"Schools continue to show strong support for the 360 Degree Safe Tool and the Online Safety Mark accreditation," said Ron Richards, Online Safety Mark Lead Assessor. "While we acknowledge that using the tool can be time-consuming, it's essential to be thorough in conducting reviews and implementing improvements. This process works best when carried out by an Online Safety Group, bringing together wide representation from across the school community. A consistent highlight in feedback from schools has been the exceptional contributions of our experienced and highly trained Assessors."
