More than 13,000 schools have used the free 360 degree safe online safety self-review tool since we first developed it more than 10 years ago.
With technology and its related behaviours constantly changing, there is a need for schools to receive updated guidance. The 2022 version of the DfE Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance addresses many of these changes and has placed additional requirements on Trustees, Governors and school leaders to update their online safeguarding policies and procedures.
What Are the New Updates?
The updated guidance is reflected in the latest version of the SWGfL 360 degree safe online safety self-review tool. In particular, the SWGfL Online Safety Policy Templates have been significantly updated. The policy sections now follow the order of the aspects within the 360 safe tool.
Schools that have used these policy templates as the basis for their own policies are strongly recommended to download the new versions and update their own policies in line with these changes.
The appendices to the template policies now include:
- A new Harmful Sexual Behaviour Policy template - building on the KCSiE guidance and Ofsted expectations
- An updated Electronic Devices - Searching & Deletion Policy template – following updated DfE guidance
- A new Acceptable Use Agreement template for Key Stage 2 children
Within the 360 tool, the links and resources sections have been updated in order to link to updated statutory guidance and best practice documentation.
With the updates to the 360 safe tool and policy templates, schools are encouraged to re-visit their review to check that their provision continues to meet recommended standards.
If you have not yet signed up to 360 Degree Safe, you can register for free and see how you can improve your online safety policy and practice. You can also visit our Back to School Hub to find out why this is so important.
