RRThe new KCSIE statutory guidance that will be in place from September 1st has strengthened the requirements of schools in relation to their online safety policy and practice.
The guidance recognises the safeguarding risks posed by the increasing use of AI technologies and has updated the “4Cs model” suggesting that schools should ensure their online safety policy, technical solutions and curriculum planning reflects these evolving risks
In addition, schools will be required to:
- implement the (at least) annual checking of the effectiveness of filtering and monitoring systems by SLT / DSL and IT provider and the recording of these checks
- ensure that all staff understand the school’s filtering and monitoring processes
- integrate filtering and monitoring into safeguarding rather than viewing them as purely technical controls
- consider AI-related risks within safeguarding, staff training and curriculum provision
More detailed information on the KCSIE updates can be found in this article: “What do schools need to know”
New Policy Templates
The 360 safe Online Safety Policy Templates were significantly updated in April 2026 to simplify the content, making it more accessible for schools and their staff. Those updates reflected the most recent guidance in the DfE Technical Standards for Schools and Colleges and took account of new developments in digital technologies and behaviours - particularly the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools.
The policy templates have now received further updates to reflect the KCSIE 2026 guidance and will act as a valuable resource for schools as they plan for the September safeguarding training for staff required in KCSIE to include online safety. They will also allow schools to update their online safety policy, ensuring that it covers all the current guidance in KCSIE and the DfE Technical Standards.
The policies can be accessed from within the 360 safe self-review tool or on the SWGfL website:
