The speed with which schools have introduced different ways of teaching and learning in response to the Covid-19 pandemic has been impressive. Many are now working in ways that would have seemed too futuristic to contemplate just a couple of months ago.

While head teachers and their staff have shown impressive flexibility and resilience in their response to the lockdown, these new ways of doing things are not without risk, particularly in terms of data protection.

Those schools that are signed up to Accordio Ltd’s low-cost, outsourced Data Protection Officer Service have been able to relax in the knowledge that the new systems, processes and ways of working they have put in place comply with their legal obligations.

Accordio’s expert help ensures that they have access to advice and guidance in this potentially difficult area without needing to employ a specialist member of staff – and given the additional challenges facing all of us as a result of the pandemic, one less thing to worry about has to be a bonus.

If your school isn’t signed up, then perhaps now is the time to review your approach to data protection, streamline your systems, reduce costs, save time and ensure compliance with the UK Data Protection Act. Accordio can then make sure your innovative way of using technology to communicate with children and parents under lockdown conditions doesn’t breach the rules.

With more than 20 years’ experience in both data protection and IT security, Accordio can ensure your data stays safe and secure without letting the technology get in the way of teaching and learning and offering an effective, flexible and reliable solution.

Accordio can:

  • Review and advise on your school’s privacy policies, procedures and documentation
  • Oversee the establishment and maintenance of your personal data processing register
  • Tell you if we think you need a data protection impact assessment (DPIA), how it should be implemented and how to deal with any issues
  • Provide guidance and support on monitoring, reporting and managing data breaches
  • Provide guidance and support around handling subject access requests

This comprehensive service is provided for a low annual fee which covers an hour of advice per month, with additional time being charged at a heavily discounted rate. A two-form entry primary school, for example, would typically pay from just £500 per year, thanks to our low overheads and detailed knowledge of how schools work.