At The Gateway Primary Academy, we recognise that cyber security is a vital part of safeguarding. Schools hold sensitive personal information and rely on technology to support teaching, learning and communication. We are committed to protecting our pupils, families, staff and systems from cyber threats and ensuring the continuity of education should an incident occur.

Our approach is based on the guidance provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the Department for Education (DfE) and the UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Why Cyber Security Matters

The internet provides opportunities to learn, communicate and have fun. However, there are also risks, including:

• Scams and fraud
• Identity theft
• Cyberbullying
• Exposure to inappropriate content
• Online grooming
• Malicious software and viruses

Staff Cyber Security Training

All staff are expected to maintain a high level of cyber awareness.

As part of our ongoing professional development programme, staff complete cyber security training using resources provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Cyber Security Learning Programme. Training is refreshed regularly to ensure staff remain informed of emerging threats and best practice.

Cyber Incident Response and Recovery

Despite strong preventative measures, no organisation can eliminate cyber risks completely. The Gateway Primary Academy maintains procedures to minimise disruption and support rapid recovery if an incident occurs.

Our cyber response arrangements include:

Immediate Action

• Identifying and containing the incident.
• Isolating affected systems where necessary.
• Engaging our ICT support provider.
• Assessing the scale and impact of the incident.

Communication

• Informing relevant stakeholders when required.
• Working with specialist advisors and authorities where appropriate.
• Meeting legal reporting requirements, including those relating to data protection.

Recovery

• Restoring systems from secure backups.
• Verifying the integrity and security of systems before returning them to service.
• Monitoring for any ongoing issues or vulnerabilities.
• Reviewing lessons learnt to strengthen future resilience.

Supporting Pupils' Digital Safety

Cyber security is closely linked to online safety.

Through our curriculum and wider safeguarding programme, pupils learn:

• How to stay safe online.
• The importance of strong passwords.
• How to recognise online risks.
• Responsible use of technology.
• How to seek help if something online makes them feel worried or unsafe.

These messages are reinforced through classroom learning, assemblies and online safety events throughout the year.

What Parents and Carers Can Do

Parents and carers play an important role in keeping children safe online. We encourage families to:

• Talk regularly about online safety.
• Monitor the websites, apps and games children use.
• Use parental controls where appropriate.
• Encourage strong passwords and secure devices.
• Report any concerns to the school.

Further Information

Useful sources of advice and guidance include:

• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
• NCSC Cyber Aware
• NCSC School Resources
• UK Safer Internet Centre
• Childnet International
• NSPCC Online Safety Hub
• Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)