how legislation affects schools
Unit 302 4.1/4.2
Freedom of information Act 2000
This act give anyone the right to request information held by a school even if the information requested is from the past. The requests must be made in writing and in some cases schools may need to protect information due to confidentiality.
How this affects my school
• Advice and assistance must be given to anyone requesting information
• All information recorded must be professional and relevant not opinions as these can be requested to be seen.
• Follow the relevant guidance when given a request for information so confidentiality is not breached
Unit 302 4.1/4.2
Data Protection Act 1998
This act is a law that requires schools to use information as it is needed and to ensure all information is locked away securely. All information whether relevant or not is to be treated as confidential. Parental consent must be gained before disclosure of information.
How this affects my school
• All information must be stored away securely and never taken offsite
• Only liaise relevant information about pupils with other professionals when needed.
• Do not share pupil information without parental consent
• Follow a retention schedule on all records.
Unit 302 4.1/4.2
Children Act 2004
The act came in alongside the every child matters framework. It is designed to place more responsibility on local authorities to improve well-being for all young children, reduce inequalities and ensure childcare is available for working parents.
This act also ensure that childcare providers are trained and run by Ofsted.
How this affects my school
• The every child matters framework needs to be delivered following the 5 basic outcomes.
• Offer parents extended school via breakfast club and extra-curricular activities.
• Ensure all staff have received sufficient guidance or training on the every child matters framework in order for it to be delivered effectively.
Freedom of information Act 2000
This act give anyone the right to request information held by a school even if the information requested is from the past. The requests must be made in writing and in some cases schools may need to protect information due to confidentiality.
How this affects my school
• Advice and assistance must be given to anyone requesting information
• All information recorded must be professional and relevant not opinions as these can be requested to be seen.
• Follow the relevant guidance when given a request for information so confidentiality is not breached
Unit 302 4.1/4.2
Data Protection Act 1998
This act is a law that requires schools to use information as it is needed and to ensure all information is locked away securely. All information whether relevant or not is to be treated as confidential. Parental consent must be gained before disclosure of information.
How this affects my school
• All information must be stored away securely and never taken offsite
• Only liaise relevant information about pupils with other professionals when needed.
• Do not share pupil information without parental consent
• Follow a retention schedule on all records.
Unit 302 4.1/4.2
Children Act 2004
The act came in alongside the every child matters framework. It is designed to place more responsibility on local authorities to improve well-being for all young children, reduce inequalities and ensure childcare is available for working parents.
This act also ensure that childcare providers are trained and run by Ofsted.
How this affects my school
• The every child matters framework needs to be delivered following the 5 basic outcomes.
• Offer parents extended school via breakfast club and extra-curricular activities.
• Ensure all staff have received sufficient guidance or training on the every child matters framework in order for it to be delivered effectively.